THE THE COLLABORATION ISSUE yre The Value of Mentorship Campus Total: What It Is and Why It Matters Melody Chang OPERA, REPRESENTATION AND EDUCATION WINTER 2024 Alpha Chi Omega VOLUME 127. ISSUE 2. REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. A Centennial RHC: Collaboration BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST t the 1983 National Convention, each A collegiate chapter was given a small (6" X 4") square to be stitched with the chapter's date of installation, school name and a symbol representative of the school or chapter. Chapters were asked to submit their squares by the summer of 1984. The squares would then be stitched together to create a wall hanging commemorating the collegiate chapters and establishments at the time of Alpha Chi Omega's 1985 centennial, with the Fraternity's coat ZETA of arms in the center and open motto in the lower righthand corner. 1895 Jody Bayer Martindill (Alpha, DePauw University), NEW ENGLAND a former Alpha Chi Omega headquarters executive secretary, mapped out the overall design, followed up CONSERVATORY with chapters and painstakingly stitched together the needlepoint squares (and occasional cross stich square) OF MUSIC to assemble this lasting keepsake. Many of the squares were designed and stitched by collegiate chapter members. Some were created by alumnae. Jody herself made several of the squares for inactive chapters. Together, through this two-year collaboration, sisters created a meaningful piece of art that reflected the "state of the Fraternity" as it marked 100 years of sisterhood. The completed wall hanging was unveiled at the 1985 Centennial Convention in Indianapolis and was prominently displayed at Alpha Chi Omega headquarters for many years. Today it is stored in the archives to best preserve it for posterity. Perhaps it will make another appearance during the Fraternity's sesquicentennial in 2035! FIND MORE UNTOLD STORIES ON THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA HISTORY WEBSITE. VISIT: ALPHACHIOMEGA.HISTORYIT.COM #AXOUntold WINTER 2024 VOLUME 127. ISSUE 2. THE COLLABORATION ISSUE REAL. STRONG. WOMAN. IN THIS ISSUE 2 LETTERS AND LYRES 4 CORNER OFFICE 5 PERSPECTIVES 6 AXO NEWS Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Social Justic Institute, upcoming events 14 FOUNDATION 28 HOUSING 32 ON CAMPUS 36 COLLEGIATE CORNER Childhood best friends to founding chapter members to chapter presidents 40 CAREER OUTLOOK 44 LIFE 48 MAKING A DIFFERENCE 56 INDUSTRY INFO Campus total: what it is and why it matters 59 ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNAE 62 ALUMNA INITIATE 50 SPOTLIGHT Melody Chang believes that education is 64 ARCHIVES the key to bettering the world. Read how 66 VOLUNTEER she lives out that conviction on stage, SPOTLIGHT behind the scenes and as the executive 67 BUSINESS Call for recommendations for director of the Asian Opera Alliance. the Foundation and NHC - plus NNC collegiate members! 71 AXO CONNECTION PHOTO CREDIT ABOVE: DYLAN K. JOHNSON PHOTO CREDIT FOR COVER: CORI KOGAN AND IN MEMORIAM THE LYRE 1 EDITOR'S DESK Collaboration LYRE SPOTTING t's recruitment season as I write this letter, I and there's no better Alpha Chi Omega event - or really, any event - to demonstrate the power of collaboration. You have your VP recruitment and event chairs guiding potential sisters through each day to get to know our members. There's the VP recruitment information and the CRIB crunching numbers between parties. Each sister who meets a PNM is building a connection and showcasing our experience. And beyond JENNIFER MORALES (GAMMA THE LYRE MADE A TRIP the collegiate members, countless alumnae are UPSILON, UNIVERSITY OF TO LAKE TAHOE WITH supporting the process by volunteering, writing HOUSTON) PLACED IN THE GAMMA ZETA (KANSAS recommendations and sharing about Alpha Chi TOP 12 AT THE UNITED STATES STATE UNIVERSITY) in their communities. OF AMERICA'S MRS. 2024 ALUMNAE DIANE (MILLER) PAGEANT. HARRINGTON (LEFT) AND CINDY (DITZLER) With their individual skills and collective HIMMELBERG. efforts, members come together each year across campuses to grow our sisterhood. As a sister shared with me once about recruitment, "It goes EDITOR'S NOTE to show that if you need something done well, The fall 2024 issue's Foundation campaign report had two just call on a group of Alpha Chi Omega women." errors. We have updated the digital version of The Lyre and regret the errors. In recruitment and beyond, each member of Alpha Chi Omega has a particular role to play. First, Past National President Judy Evans Anderson Each of us leverages our unique skills and passions (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) was accidentally to move the organization forward. But we can't omitted from the campaign donor listing. We are very do it alone. The key is collaboration. It takes all grateful for her gifts to the Common Bond. Uncommon of us coming together to make this organization Impact. campaign at the Scarlet Impact level ($25,000- the powerful, transformative and everlasting $49,999). sisterhood that it is and will continue to be. Second, there was a typo in the name of one of the Loyally, endowed funds created during the campaign. The correct name of the fund is the Suzy Ball Gunter Memorial LAUREN FILIPPINI Fund Benefitting Let's Talk Love, not Love's Talk Love as ALPHA CHI (BUTLER UNIVERSITY) originally printed. This fund supports Alpha Chi Omega's MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER domestic violence awareness rotational program, in honor EDITOR, THE LYRE of our late Alpha Mu sister Suzy. 2 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Alpha Chi Omega Contributors National President Jennifer Daurora ZORA DERAHM ZETA PHI (CORNELL UNIVERSITY) National Vice Presidents Leslie Abramsky Block This year, Zora is serving as president of the Kristin Miller Edwards Cornell Student Assembly - the youngest Dr. Cassie Gerhardt Dr. Jennifer Wilhoit Lane person to serve in that role in school history! Kelli Rodriguez She shares about her leadership role and the impact of Alpha Chi Omega in helping her seek CORNELL Chief Executive Officer the heights on page 5. Katie Lampinen Gaffin Senior Director of Education and KORI WHITENER FELLOWS, PH.D. Engagement Amy Colvin Mustafa ALPHA PHI (THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN) Director of Marketing and Communications Kori is the president and owner of KWF Amanda Spice Solutions, LLC and a long-time Alpha Chi Marketing and Communications Omega volunteer, most recently completing Manager service as the Foundation Board of Trustees Lauren Filippini chair. She continues to give back to Alpha Chi Omega, including at the local level when she The Lyre is published quarterly. joined the planning committee for the Alpha POSTMASTER: Send address changes Phi centennial celebration. Read about the to The Lyre Texas-sized event on page 10. 5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46250-4304 Submission Deadlines STAFF CONTRIBUTORS Fall issue July 1 Winter issue - October 1 Spring issue - January 1 KELSEY ATKINSON, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE GROWTH Summer issue - April 1 ARIANNA BRADLEY, DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT SALLY CUTLER, HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST 317-579-5050 alphachiomega.org MORGAN ELAM, FOUNDATION COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST editor@alphachiomega.org EMILY FLOYD, EVENTS MANAGER GINA FOX, DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE GROWTH Our Mission EMILY ROSE JACOBSEN, DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION Through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, Alpha Chi Omega RACHEL HALEY, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION cultivates impactful communities MEGAN HATFIELD, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP where women are inspired to INITIATIVES connect, lead, grow and serve. LAURA KNOBEL, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT AUTUMN MCBRIDE, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION FCA INITIATIVES FRATERNITY COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION AMY COLVIN MUSTAFA, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT KENDALL SUESS, HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR EMMA WILLE, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST NPC national panhellenic conference THE LYRE 3 CORNER OFFICE Seeking the Heights Together in Alpha Chi Omega BY KATIE GAFFIN (DELTA ZETA, CENTRAL MICHIGAN when one sister advances, she UNIVERSITY), CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER brings others with her. hen thinking about what to share in Teamwork is integral to W this quarter's Corner Office column, achieving Alpha Chi Omega's I was excited to focus on the topic of goals, both individually and collaboration, as I witness it across the Alpha Chi as chapters. From organizing Omega Enterprise on a daily basis! Whether it be philanthropic events to our staff team working to serve our members, our hosting academic workshops, volunteers collaborating in service to others or our sisters work together to strategic governance model at work - Alpha Chis have achieve shared objectives. In doing so, they cultivate KATIE GAFFIN collaboration in mind. It truly "takes a village" to support the important and vital work of our beloved sisterhood. leadership skills, learn effective communication, And by championing each other's ambitions and goals, and understand the value of mutual respect and Alpha Chi Omega members create a community where accountability. Teamwork teaches members to navigate personal and collective success flourishes. challenges as a unit, allowing them to develop solutions together. These experiences not only strengthen the From the moment a new sister joins Alpha Chi Omega, chapter but also equip each sister with the tools to she steps into an environment that fosters meaningful thrive in group settings throughout her life and career. connections. Through shared experiences-philanthropic, academic and social-members build relationships that At the core of Alpha Chi Omega's collaborative spirit form the foundation for future collaborations. These is the belief in empowering each other to seek the friendships provide more than emotional support; heights. Our open motto embodies the idea that success they also become avenues for growth, mentorship and is a shared journey. By offering support, resources and opportunity. Alpha Chi Omega's network spans far beyond opportunities, sisters ensure that no one is climbing the collegiate experience, offering lifelong connections alone. The heights each member reaches are both in various fields. When one sister succeeds, the impact personal and collective, as the achievements of one resonates throughout our entire community, creating a sister enhance the strength of the whole. Whether ripple effect of inspiration and motivation. We feature in academic pursuits, leadership roles or professional stories of our sisters and their pursuits and recognize their careers, Alpha Chi Omega members know that success often - including in this issue of The Lyre! collaboration is the key to unlocking their potential. Professional and personal development are key aspects Ultimately, the collaborative environment within of collaboration within Alpha Chi Omega. Sisters Alpha Chi Omega fosters a culture where success is offer mentorship, internships and job opportunities to not only possible but inevitable. Through friendships, collegiate members, bridging the gap between academic professional networks and a commitment to teamwork, life and professional aspirations. These relationships can sisters build each other up, ensuring that they all rise be life-changing, providing guidance and resources that together. In seeking the heights, Alpha Chi Omegas may not have been accessible otherwise. Collaboration demonstrate that true success is best achieved through within Alpha Chi Omega transcends competition- the support and strength of others. 4 ALPHA CHI OMEGA PERSPECTIVES Building Connection and Community SERVING AS CORNELL'S everyone's wishes for the YOUNGEST STUDENT future of our campus community and painting ASSEMBLY PRESIDENT a brighter picture of Cornell through the eyes BY ZORA DERHAM of others. (ZETA PHI, CORNELL UNIVERSITY) Being Student Assembly CORNELL UNIVERSITY ust over 200 days into my college experience, president has given me a J I decided to run for president of the Cornell chance to gain leadership Student Assembly. When I made that fateful experience, develop ZORA DERHAM decision, I made a commitment to fulfilling strong communication my potential as a leader, took a leap of faith in myself skills and become an efficient manager of my time. and wondered what I could potentially accomplish. Student government also offers real-world skills such Most people who decide to run for the highest as learning how to work with people with differing elected undergraduate office do SO as rising seniors, agendas, worldviews and approaches to problem- making my goal to represent the Cornell community solving. Through my work in student government, at a younger age audacious and, to be honest, nerve- I am enriching my Cornell journey beyond the wracking. I saw running for office as one of the most classroom, making connections with people that powerful ways to advocate for my classmates, to be I might have never had an opportunity to meet their voice and to amplify their unique perspectives. otherwise and working with people who share my I was thrilled when I won, becoming the first sense of service to others. freshman ever elected president of the Cornell Student Assembly. In my time as an Alpha Chi Omega, I am often reminded of valuable lessons about creating and As the saying goes, all politics are local, and campus maintaining a community to make the places we governance is no different. As president of the Student call home stronger and more unified. There is Assembly, my goals have been to focus on issues that not a night in the house when I am not enjoying impact the Cornell student community and to work conversation about matters great and small, serious on projects that can support the everyday campus and lighthearted, and more with my sisters. Before and experience. I spend time getting to know constituents after formal events my sisters help me get ready and that normally don't have the interest or the time help me calm my nerves. There is nothing more fun to attend Student Assembly meetings. My outreach than a night drive around our neighborhood before entails meeting these constituents where they are and bed. The house and sisterhood are beautiful reminders not expecting them to come to me. I devote time to of how strong community that truly cares about you speaking with student athletes where they practice, can be. I consider myself very fortunate to be a real, attending student club meetings to learn about their strong woman surrounded by women who inspire and organizations' mission and goals, and meeting fellow support me as I seek to better our university and home participants in Greek life to become knowledgeable away from home. about their chapters' issues. I love learning about THE LYRE 5 Counting the Cost of Financial Abuse BY MEGAN HATFIELD (ZETA SIGMA, MISSOURI While this is by no means a comprehensive list of ways STATE UNIVERSITY), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF financial abuse is exerted, nor does someone need to EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES recognize all these signs to be in an abusive relationship, they showcase examples of relationship red flags. Similar n the 32 years that Alpha Chi Omega has embraced to other forms of abuse, financial abuse can occur subtly I our commitment to domestic violence awareness, and progress with time. It also leaves a devastating we've had the opportunity to shed light on varying impact. According to the National Institute of Health types of domestic abuse. This October, our efforts were (NIH), the cost of domestic violence over a female focused on financial abuse, which is a devastating and survivor's lifetime is $104,000, which includes medical often hidden form of domestic violence. According to the costs, lost work productivity, property loss and more. National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), financial abuse occurs in 99% of domestic violence As Alpha Chi Omegas committed to ending domestic cases. It's been cited as the most common reason a victim violence, we know that education and support are stays in an abusive relationship. keys to empowering survivors. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is one of the greatest resources we A staggering 3/4 of Americans don't recognize financial can share with victims of domestic violence. For more abuse as a form of violence, which illustrates the information on financial abuse, safety planning and importance of our work. The Center for Financial supporting someone experiencing financial abuse, visit Security defines financial abuse as "controlling a thehotline.org/resources/financialabuse/. For additional person's ability to acquire, use and maintain economic ways to support survivors, reach out to your local resources," which can look several ways: domestic violence shelters or organizations to see how you can best support their work. Controlling how money is spent, such as not sharing what resources are available or what If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic is happening with shared money, not allowing abuse, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline access to banking information or accounts, by phone at 800-799-SAFE (7233) or by texting "START" giving an "allowance" with oversight of spending, to 88788. requiring permission to buy things or holding back money for necessities DON'T Interfering with work, such as not allowing a partner to work or telling them where to work, showing up and disrupting work, keeping THESE HURT someone from getting to work or incessantly begging a person to quit Forcing someone into debt, such as by racking up credit card debt, opening new accounts and credit cards in the partner's name, or saying they will pay the bills and not doing SO Alpha Chi Omega 6 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Which of the unhealthy signs Intensity did you see in the film? Possessiveness HONORING DOMESTIC Deflecting Responsibility Which unhealthy sign stands Manipulation VIOLENCE AWARENESS out as the biggest barrier to a Isolation healthy relationship? 10 Signs Sabotage of an Unhealthy Belittling MONTH 2024 Why? Relationship Guilting Volatility Betrayal hether you volunteered at your local W domestic violence shelter or agency, hosted a philanthropy event, tabled On October 17, headquarters hosted a DVAM webinar to bring awareness on campus, amplified our with our partners at the One Love Foundation, co-led by message on social media or anything in between, One's Loves youth mobilization manager and Alpha Chi we are beyond proud of our members' efforts this Omega sister, Gabi Schutt (Kappa Rho, University of Domestic Violence Awareness Month! Thank you North Carolina at Charlotte)! Participants learned about for your support of Alpha Chi Omega's national the signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships and philathropy. explored their own financial boundaries. H alpha chi Theta Omicron (Massachusetts Kappa Omicron (High Point Institute of Technology) hosted University) held a "Love Shouldn't Mile Alpha Chi Cafe on campus and Hurt" campaign, featuring a screening raised funds for its long-standing of The Life and Murder of Nicole Brown partnership with the Boston Simpson, followed by an impactful Area Rape Crisis Center. speaking engagement by Nicole Brown Simpson's sister Denise Brown. OF SURVIVORS stay WITH AN 74% ABUSER longer THE ESTIMATED DUE TO FINANCES Beta Psi (Louisiana Tech OVERALL WORKPLACE University) hosted multiple productivity costs fundraising and awareness Our members had access to new infographics campaigns leading up to its ARE this year related to financial abuse. Some annual Walk a Mile event, $1.3 members and friends shared them on social which raised $30,000 for its local media, while others printed and used them shelter, DART (Domestic Abuse trillion for campus tabling and philanthropy events! Resistance Team). THE LYRE 7 AXO NEWS Alumnae Book Club 2025 List A re you looking for a way to connect with literary-loving alumnae across the country? If so, the Alpha Chi Omega Alumnae Book Club is the place for you! Our 2025 selections were just announced, and we hope you'll join us for monthly discussions in the "AXO Alumnae Book Club" Facebook group. We look forward to reading alongside you soon! YORK TIMES THE PARIS LIBRARY JENNA The MISS The EMILY HENRY NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER HAPPY PLACE Wedding MORGAN'S THE House BOOK HEIRESS BRIGADE The RACHEL Eve Lost Bookshop FUNNY HAWKINS Alison STORY Sadeqa Johnson ANOVEL JANET SKESLIEN CHARLES Author of Yellow Wife WOODS JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE The Wedding Miss Morgan's The Heiress The House of The Lost Funny Story by People Book Brigade by by Rachel Eve by Sadeqa Bookshop by Emily Henry by Alison Janet Skeslien Hawkins Johnson Evie Woods Espach Charles Discussion Discussion Discussion Discussion Dates: June Discussion Discussion Dates: March Dates: April Dates: May 23-27 Dates: January Dates: February 24-28 21-25 26-30 27-31 24-28 "Completely Time IONA KRISTIN SANKOFA WHERE A NOVEL IVERSON'S the HANNAH VERA WONG'S RULES FOREST THE UNSOLICITED MEETS BEX FOR WOMEN ADVICE for COMMUTING CHIBUNDU the STARS MURDERERS RIVER CLARECLEY ONUZO SHELLEY READ AUTHOR OF WELCOME TO LAGOS JESSE Q. SUTANTO GLENDY VANDERAH National Bestselling Author of Dial for Aunties JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER The Women by Vera Wong's Go as a River by Iona Iverson's Sankofa by Where the Forest Kristin Hannah Unsolicited Shelley Read Rules for Chibundu Meets the Stars Advice for Commuting by Onuzo by Glendy Discussion Murderers by Discussion Clare Pooley Vanderah Dates: July Jesse Q. Sutanto Dates: Discussion 21-25 September Discussion Dates: Discussion Discussion 22-26 Dates: October November Dates: Dates: August 20-24 17-21 December 25-29 15-19 8 ALPHA CHI OMEGA PROGRAM REFLECTION A DIVERSE GROUP Social Justice OF 25 INDIVIDUALS, COMPRISED OF 13 COLLEGIANS AND 12 ALUMNAE, Institute 2024 Recap WERE CHOSEN TO PARTICIPATE IN SOCIAL JUSTICE BY AUTUMN MCBRIDE (TAU, BRENAU UNIVERSITY), INSTITUTE. WHEN ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, "This program has provided ASKED TO REFLECT ON EQUITY AND INCLUSION INITIATIVES me with education and THEIR SJI EXPERIENCE, MANY PARTICIPANTS information that I will SHARED THE S part of Alpha Chi Omega's diversity, equity A carry with me for the rest INVALUABLE IMPACT and inclusion work and commitment to of my life." OF THE RESOURCES domestic violence awareness and prevention, AND COMMUNITY - RILEY SARSANY the Social Justice Institute (SJI) experience was created THEY FOUND IN SJI. (KAPPA, UNIVERSITY OF and launched in summer 2023. The 2024 SJI experience WISCONSIN-MADISON) offered another transformative journey for participants from May to June. "I've been wanting to do more in the fight against domestic violence. Now that I have a new set of contacts and ideas, I feel that I'll be much better Over six weeks, participants delved into diverse topics such as building bridges to healing and leveraging their able to put my money where my mouth is." unique talents to support their communities. Through - PAIGE DYE (ALPHA NU, UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI) 75-minute sessions, they engaged in both small-group discussions and large-group conversations, fostering growth, understanding and a commitment to supporting Additionally, the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual domestic violence survivors. Our Social Justice Institute Assault and the Community Violence Intervention cohort exemplifies the vital role of leaders in tackling Center, both with Alpha Chi Omega alumnae working the ongoing need for awareness, survivor support and or volunteering there, contributed their expertise and resources related to the widespread impact of domestic resources to the program. violence. CONTINUED COMMITMENT VOLUNTEER FACILITATORS Alpha Chi Omega remains steadfast in our dedication Skilled Alpha Chi Omega volunteers, dedicated to to fostering a more inclusive membership experience advancing inclusion, led the SJI sessions: and our commitment to domestic violence awareness Ahjah Johnson and prevention. Members are encouraged to educate (Delta Rho, University of Arkansas) themselves on these topics and join Alpha Chi Omega in Amelia Gentile-Mathew taking part in change. To learn more, visit the Diversity, (Kappa Lambda, University of San Diego) Equity and Inclusion page on alphachiomega.org. Michelle Anderson (Iota Sigma, Southern Methodist University) Sisters passionate about creating change are in luck.! In 2025, Allison Burkman the Social Justice Institute will transition to the Keys to Service (Alpha Pi, University of North Dakota) program. This new name more accurately describes the Melissa Ramirez intended outcomes of the program and reflects Alpha Chi (Beta Omega, The University of Toledo) Omega's history of generosity, compassion and commitment to Danielle Robello creating lasting impact in our local communities. Stay tuned for (Kappa Lambda, University of San Diego) details via email and social media! THE LYRE 9 LEFT: CENTENNIAL EVENT ATTENDEES; RIGHT: CUSTOM CENTENNIAL BOOTS; PHOTOS BY MEL / FILMS THIRTY FOUR MELBALDERRAMASILES1992@GMAIL.COM Celebrating 100 Years of Sisterhood - Texas Style BY KORI WHITENER FELLOWS, PH.D., (ALPHA to victory, while others enjoyed a game-watching party PHI, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN) at local alumna Dubravka Romano's home, where they CENTENNIAL PLANNING COMMITTEE welcomed Alpha Chi Omega National President Jennifer Daurora (Delta, Allegheny College) to Texas. W ith excitement and joy, more than 300 Alpha Phi chapter sisters from The University On Sunday, a celebration brunch was held at The of Texas at Austin celebrated 100 years of Otis Hotel to conclude a weekend of connection and sisterhood September 20-23, 2024. Alumnae and collegians commitment. The brunch was highlighted by Jennifer gathered to commemorate the chapter's founding on Daurora's welcome message and the Centennial Plaque September 13, 1924, by 12 real, strong women - including Ceremony; a sharing of history and achievement by aptly named founder Texas Settle. The first women's Dr. Kori Whitener Fellows; a spotlight on alumnae organization to openly exist at The University of Texas, involvement from Stacey Farrell and Marlene Small; and the chapter began a rich history of excellence marked by an inspirational message from Alpha Phi alumna, Award trailblazers and history-makers, including 10 Alpha Chi of Achievement honoree, and Enron whistleblower, Omega Award of Achievement winners. Sherron Watkins. In true Texas style, the Centennial Planning Committee gifted the national organization The festivities kicked off with collegiate members custom cowboy boots to commemorate 100 years of Texas welcoming alumnae home with an inspiring door chant, Alpha Chi (pictured above). Handmade by Mario Garcia, house tours and a birthday reception. Nametag buttons the boots feature burnt orange elements specific to Alpha featuring original composite pictures were a highlight, and Phi's 100 years and The University of Texas at Austin. sisters enjoyed finding those pictures, exploring old rooms, seeing how the house has changed and eating birthday The brunch concluded with a milestone pinning cake! The fun continued Friday night with a Decades ceremony for 40 women led by Past National President Reunion party at Pershing Hall featuring curated spaces Donna Chereck. In addition, sisters were remembered for each decade of sisters to gather and reminisce, as well as with a memorial tree. The celebration closed with a toast a video booth to capture laughter and memories. written by Katy Copley, featuring a celebration of Texas Alpha Chi and the iconic Hook 'em Horns! Shopping and football marked a beautiful Saturday, as sisters spent the day at the Kendra Scott Give Back event in The milestone weekend's success was thanks to the honor of 100 years of Alpha Phi. Alumnae hosted tailgate Centennial Planning Committee, led by alumnae co-chairs parties throughout campus and cheered the Longhorns Teresa Taylor and Stacey Farrell and collegiate co-chairs Sarah Jane Nicholson and Samantha Wiedemann. 10 CHI OMEGA Convention's Impact hile the 62nd National Convention has W lives while creating handmade philanthropic jewelry, passed, the Indianapolis community shining light, and giving back to local and global causes can still feel the impact of those who in the community." Sisters spent time together creating made a pit stop in the city this summer. Attendees 45 special bracelets for donation, which HopeAnchor were encouraged to bring gift cards for two local & Crew plans to gift to Indianapolis-area women who organizations in support of Alpha Chi Omega's national have been affected by domestic violence. philanthropy of domestic violence awareness. The Julian Center and Coburn Place provide vital services and support to survivors of domestic violence to help them recover and rebuild their lives. Thanks to the generosity of convention attendees in providing gift cards and making on-site cash donations, Alpha Chi Omega was able to provide more than $1,300 in support! Another special aspect of convention this year was our service project with HopeAnchor & Crew, whose CONVENTION ATTENDEES MAKING BRACELETS FOR mission is to "empower women to live full balanced DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SURVIVORS TAKE A PEEK INTO THE chapter consultant EXPERIENCE! EMI GAMACHE (GAMMA SIGMA, UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND) "Traveling and connecting with others has truly opened my eyes to just how many incredible women are part of our sisterhood. From networking and building new friendships to supporting collegians as a consultant, I'm SO grateful for this opportunity!" "I have gained confidence not only in facilitating discussions and workshops, but also in my networking capabilities! I have truly felt myself grow personally and professionally in just a short period of time." "My favorite travel moment SO far was when I was waiting to board a flight for another visit. A women stopped me and noticed the AXO letters on my bag. She told me she is an Alpha Chi as well and the chapter I was visiting next was hers!" INSPIRED BY EMI'S EXPERIENCES? WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CHAPTER CONSULTANT ROLE? SCAN THE QR CODE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND RECOMMEND SOMEONE OR YOURSELF! AXO NEWS High-Achieving Chapters ACHIEVEMENT ACHIEVEMENT IN IN ACADEMICS PHILANTHROPY Congratulations to these collegiate chapters that received Congratulations to these 10 collegiate chapters with the a chapter average GPA at or above 3.5; a * denotes those highest average service hours per member! We're proud that received a 3.5 average multiple terms. of these real, strong women making a difference in their communities. Alpha (DePauw University) Beta (Albion College) Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union) Delta (Allegheny College) Alpha Kappa (University of Oregon) Theta (University of Michigan)* Alpha Chi (Butler University) Lambda (Syracuse University) Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University) Omicron (Baker University) Gamma Upsilon (University of Houston) Rho (University of Washington) Delta Pi (University of Tennessee, Knoxville) Tau (Brenau University) Epsilon Lambda (The University of Texas at Arlington) Alpha Pi (University of North Dakota) lota Sigma (Southern Methodist University) Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama)* lota Phi (Quinnipiac University) Alpha Chi (Butler University)* Lambda Mu (Trinity College) Beta Delta (College of William & Mary) Beta Eta (Florida State University) Beta Omicron (Florida Southern College)* Beta Sigma (University of Georgia)* Beta Phi (Bowling Green State University) Gamma Theta (University of Maryland) NEW CONSULTANT Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University)* TEAM MEMBER! Delta Epsilon (Southeast Missouri State University) Delta Mu (University of Massachusetts)* Alpha Chi Omega Delta Chi (William Woods University) headquarters is Delta Omega (University of Kentucky) thrilled to add Kate Epsilon Phi (Georgia Institute of Technology) McGhee to our 2024- Epsilon Chi (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) 25 chapter consultant Zeta Eta (Bradley University) team. With a Bachelor Zeta Rho (Northwood University)* of Science degree in Zeta Upsilon (Case Western Reserve University) nutrition, Kate brings Zeta Phi (Cornell University) strong leadership and Theta Iota (Baylor University) experience, having Theta Omega (Marquette University)* served the Alpha lota Lambda (Texas Christian University) Phi (The University of Texas at Austin) chapter Iota Omega (Carthage College) as president and VP risk management. She also Kappa Phi (Loyola Marymount University) led communications for the chapter's centennial Lambda Mu (Trinity College) celebration and volunteered as Panhellenic advisor in the months following her graduation. 12 ALPHA CHI OMEGA FIND MORE EVENTS, REGISTRATIONS Dates to Remember AND DEADLINES AT ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG NEWS AND RESOURCES EVENTS. LEADERSHIP ACADEMY - ALUMNAE CHAPTER COLLEGIATE GROWTH JANUARY 24-26, OFFICER RETREAT - ACADEMY - 2025 FEBRUARY 2, 2025 FEBRUARY 21-23, Leadership Academy Alumnae chapter leaders will 2025 is Alpha Chi Omega's connect and grow during education AXL This annual training premier training for chapter sessions, small group discussions is an opportunity for presidents and executive board and more virtual opportunities that VPs recruitment, VPs officers. The weekend training will leave them inspired to continue recruitment combines innovative learning seeking the heights! (Only open to information, and VPs public relations sessions with sisterhood to inspire alumnae chapter officers) and marketing to acquire new new officers when they return HEALTHY recruitment and marketing strategies to their chapters. (Open only to as well as strengthen retention and designated officers) RELATIONSHIPS belonging within their chapters. (Open WEEK - only to designated officers) DISCOVERY EXPERIENCE - FEBRUARY 10-14, 2025 JANUARY 25-26, The goal of Healthy Relationships HERA DAY - 2025 Week is to foster the development MARCH 1, 2025 The Foundation of healthy relationships and, in Since 1911, Alpha Chi will welcome select turn, prevent domestic violence Omega has celebrated and sexual assault. Part of our donors to Discovery Experience in Hera Day, in honor of Indianapolis to see their gifts in commitment to DVA, the week our patron goddess, by action during Leadership Academy, focuses on encouraging individuals providing service to others. How to define what love means to them one of the many Real. Strong. will you make a difference in your Women. Experience programs through the Love Is campaign. community? funded by the Foundation. (Open only to select donors) ALPHA CHI NIGHT OUT - INTERNATIONAL FEBRUARY 13, 2025 BADGE DAY - MACDOWELL MONTH - We invite alumnae to MARCH 3, 2025 FEBRUARY 2025 connect and gather for National Panhellenic Alpha Chi Omega honors our Alpha Chi Night Out. Conference Founders' heritage as musicians Whether it is a night out and our first philanthropic project, with sisters or a virtual night in, the organizations encourage the MacDowell artists' residency goal is to engage as many members members to wear their badges program, through MacDowell as possible worldwide in a day of fun and proudly share their sorority affiliation with their communities. and sisterhood. Month. During February, our members are encouraged to be patrons of the arts and ST. LOUIS AREA ALUMNAE, SAVE THE DATE! attend or participate in SIGMA SIGMA, THE ALUMNAE CHAPTER IN ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, WILL exhibitions, concerts and CELEBRATE ITS CENTENNIAL YEAR ON MARCH 1, 2025! CONTACT ALPHACHIOMEGASTLOUIS@GMAIL.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. other events. THE LYRE 13 FOUNDATION Academic FOUNDATION TIP: Assistance 101 WE KNOW TERMINOLOGY CAN GET CONFUSING! "ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE" REFERS TO ALL FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS HOW THE FOUNDATION'S (MERIT-BASED ACADEMIC GRANTS) SCHOLARSHIPS AND AND EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS (NEED-BASED ACADEMIC GRANTS EMPOWER REAL, GRANTS). STRONG WOMEN BY MORGAN ELAM (EPSILON ZETA, AUBURN UNIVERSITY), FOUNDATION COMMUNICATIONS "I attended Carnegie Mellon on an ROTC scholarship SPECIALIST for my tuition and books, but room, board and living expenses were still nontrivial. I cobbled together a few ach spring, the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation E grants, a handful of small scholarships and a little bit awards academic assistance grants to collegiate of part-time work on campus. Every little bit really and alumnae members to help offset costs of does help and get you that much closer. My sorority pursuing a college degree. These grants, made possible experience was really foundational for me as a woman through the generosity of our donors, help members majoring in a male-dominated field of study. It gave me reach their full potential while in school, both new dimensions in learning about leadership where academically and personally. I wasn't talked over or around, and it gave me the experience of leading, negotiating and learning in a The need for academic support continues to increase as space where everyone chose to be there and together. tuition and education-related costs rise each year, but the Foundation's academic assistance grants are there to "Fast forward, Kappa Nu chapter launched an help ensure that financial challenges don't stand in the initiative to raise funds for a permanent scholarship. way of a fulfilling sorority experience. I remembered how much those small individual scholarships did for me, and every day there's some The impact donors play in the academic assistance reminder of how much my sorority experience has process is profound and measurable in the number of shaped me. I really wanted to be able to pay it forward grants awarded and the testimonies of gratitude from a bit to a new generation of women. My husband and recipients. I opted to direct our giving dollars that year to endow an annual scholarship for a Kappa Nu sister. We aren't billionaires by a long shot 2023-24 ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE but wanted to put our money where it BY THE NUMBERS: mattered, into something that we hope 245 helps other women seeking that same SCHOLARSHIPS AND EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS AWARDED foundational leadership and sisterhood $395,270 AWARDED IN ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE GRANTS experience." 92 CHAPTERS AND 38 STATES REPRESENTED BY RECIPIENTS EILEEN WRUBEL (KAPPA NU, CARNEGIE MELLON) 3.787 AVERAGE GPA OF RECIPIENTS A FULL LISTING OF 2023-24 GRANTS AND RECIPIENTS CAN BE FOUND ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES IN THIS DIGITAL FORMAT OF THE MAGAZINE. By contributing to academic assistance funds, donors are investing in more than just academic success- they're empowering the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow. You can join the community of donors making education accessible for Alpha Chi Omega women today. Every gift directly impacts a sister on her journey toward graduation and beyond. To learn more and support the Foundation's academic assistance, scan the QR code to visit the Special Funds page of the Foundation website and click on "Scholarships" or "Educational Assistance." Inspired to create a lasting impact? Contact the Foundation at foundation@alphachiomega.org to learn more about scholarship and educational assistance grant endowment opportunities. $400,000 $396,269 THANKS TO THE SUPPORT OF DONORS, THE TOTAL AMOUNT GRANTED IN $300,000 ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE HAS INCREASED MORE THAN $200,000 $203,806 51% FROM 2020- 2024! $100,000 2020 2024 THE LYRE 15 FOUNDATION 2023-24 Academic Assistance Recipients ADELE FIEVE DREW MEMORIAL Hope Donovan (Gamma Xi, Western ALPHA DELTA CHAPTER SCHOLARSHIP Michigan University) SCHOLARSHIP FUND Blake Lyster (lota Sigma, Southern Madi Flythe (Theta Lambda, Clemson Lily Grace Effinger (Beta Tau, Miami Methodist University) University) University) ALICE LOHRMAN ANDREWS ALPHA CHI SCHOLARS FUND ALPHA GAMMA ALPHA Maggie Bradley (Epsilon Phi, Georgia MICHIGAN SCHOLARSHIP GEORGIA SCHOLARSHIP FUND Institute of Technology) FUND Heather Renee Broyles (Beta Lambda, Maggie Bradley (Epsilon Phi, Georgia Lilli Bernier (Zeta Rho, Northwood University of Arizona) Institute of Technology) University) Maddie Bulman (Sigma, University of Hope Donovan (Gamma Xi, Western Iowa) ALPHA KAPPA CENTENNIAL Michigan University) Margaret Ann Cielesz (Theta Iota, Baylor EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE University) GRANT ALPHA CHI CHAPTER Miranda Emerick (Alpha Chi, Butler Bridget Collins (Alpha Kappa, University SCHOLARSHIP FUND University) of Oregon) Alayna Barton (Alpha Chi, Butler Abigail Gan (Theta Iota, Baylor Allison Waters (Alpha Kappa, University University) University) of Oregon) Jordan Diller (Alpha Chi, Butler Julia Harrison (Beta Epsilon, Michigan University) State University) ALPHA UPSILON SCHOLARSHIP Lydia Lee (Delta Nu, Iowa State University) FUND ALPHA CHI EDUCATIONAL Madi Lee (Alpha Pi, University of North Natalie Davis (Alpha Upsilon, The ASSISTANCE FUND Dakota) University of Alabama) Allison Apmann (Iota Omega, Carthage Michelle Lee (Zeta Upsilon, Case Avery Kathryn Jung (Alpha Upsilon, The College) Western Reserve University) University of Alabama) Ashleigh Mauler (Gamma Zeta, Kansas Mary Lavorato (Alpha Upsilon, The State University) University of Alabama) "I am Natalie Maxhimer-Rodriguez (Omicron, Catharine WeiMei Stockstill (Alpha grateful to Baker University) Upsilon, The University of Alabama) be a grant Grayson Pitt (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt recipient! University) ALPHA ZETA UNDERGRADUATE It means a Caitlyn Rayne Pratt (lota Pi, Houston FUND IN MEMORY OF KAY ROH lot to me Christian University) Brooklyn Riley (Zeta Sigma, Missouri that you Kathryn Reardon (Lambda Pi, University State University) made the decision to continue of Mississippi) your commitment to the Melis Sahin (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western sisterhood of Alpha Chi Omega Reserve University) ANGELA COSTLEY HARRIS by uplifting the next generation, Stephanie Tian (Delta Mu, University of EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE Massachusetts) and I am incredibly honored to FUND Avery Tucker (Alpha Upsilon, The be a direct beneficiary of your Nidhi Gundimeda (Theta, University of University of Alabama) thoughtfulness. Thank you SO Michigan) Nina Whitney (Zeta Rho, Northwood much for your support of my University) education!" ANGELS OF PI CHAPTER Brianna Nicole Young (Delta Lambda, Ripon College) SCHOLARSHIP MELIA ALEXA LACHINSKI Chloe Loera (Pi, University of California, (ALPHA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY Berkeley) OF MINNESOTA) 16 ALPHA CHI OMEGA "I would like to express ANNABELLE GRANT PARSONS BETA CHI SCHOLARSHIP FUND my deepest SCHOLARSHIP FUND IN MEMORY OF KATHERINE gratitude Braquelle Blanchard (Chi, Oregon State IONE REDMOND for the grant University) Courtney Janae St Onge (Beta Chi, awarded Fiona Finnigan (Chi, Oregon State Willamette University) to support University) Yahaira Vazquez (Beta Chi, Willamette my studies. Your generous University) contribution will play a pivotal ANNE FOLRATH GERHART role in enabling me to pursue my CARLA HENKE MATTSON FUND BETA EPSILON CHAPTER passion. Thank you for investing Anna Cashatt (Phi, University of Kansas) SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY OF in my future and empowering Lauren Gadkari (Sigma, University of MARY BETH KNOX me to make meaningful Iowa) contributions to my field." Natalie Maxhimer-Rodriguez (Omicron, Julia Harrison (Beta Epsilon, Michigan Baker University) State University) - JAYLENE SOSA (BETA ETA, BETTY THOMAS MARSHALL FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) ANNE PEEL HOPKINS FUND Ida Jamshidi (Theta Iota, Baylor - THOMAS VAN PATTEN University) SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kate Beckemeier (Alpha Beta, Purdue Meredith Grimm (Beta Eta, Florida State BARBARA EGERTON BRADY University) University) Tam Thanh My Ngo (Alpha, DePauw TILLERY SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kaya Johnson (Epsilon Chi, University of BONNIE HOUSE ANDREWS University) Brooklyn Riley (Zeta Sigma, Missouri North Carolina at Chapel Hill) FUND State University) Kate Beckemeier (Alpha Beta, Purdue Jaylene Sosa (Beta Eta, Florida State BEL LARUE NEAL FUND University) University) Karinn Elizabeth Johnson (Alpha, Parker Sikora (Alpha Beta, Purdue DePauw University) University) CAROLINE SHACKELFORD Tam Thanh My Ngo (Alpha, DePauw Grace Sojka (Alpha Beta, Purdue University) FULMER SCHOLARSHIP FUND University) Matigan Williams (Alpha, DePauw Mary Lavorato (Alpha Upsilon, The University) BRANDOLYN DICKEY University of Alabama) HENDERSON MEMORIAL CATHY SMITH BORAGNO SCHOLARSHIP FUND "Thank you SCHOLARSHIP FUND Grace Caroline Humble (Gamma so much for Nicole Kirkorian (Epsilon Psi, University Epsilon, Oklahoma State University) this amazing of California, Irvine) opportunity BROOKE FESSLER GRADUATE to lighten CHAVEZ-CURRIE FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR the financial EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE burden EPSILON KAPPA FUND that comes with pursuing my Isabella Cramner (Epsilon Kappa, Grace Judith Johnston (Alpha Upsilon, California State University, Fullerton) education. This means so much The University of Alabama) to me as I will be able to spend BURNETTE GRIMES JONES less time working and more time CHERYL MAIZE EDUCATIONAL studying and being involved in SCHOLARSHIP FUND ASSISTANCE FUND FOR DELTA service on campus. My family Izzy Maddaloni (Omega, Washington and I are SO incredibly grateful. State University) OMICRON CHAPTER Emily Phan Le (Delta Omicron, Portland Thank you again!" CAROL EDMUNDSON State University) JULIA KATHRYN RONEMUS HUTCHESON EDUCATIONAL CLAUDIA STEELE BAKER (EPSILON CHI, UNIVERSITY OF ASSISTANCE FUND SCHOLARSHIP FUND NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL Phoebe Bunting (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn Stephanie Tian (Delta Mu, University of HILL) University) Massachusetts) THE LYRE 17 FOUNDATION DELTA KAPPA EDUCATIONAL ELEANOR SMITH FOX "Thank you ASSISTANCE FUND EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE SO much for Scarlett McDowell (Delta Kappa, Sam FUND allowing Houston State University) Grace Helen Brendel (Kappa Chi, Florida me to be a Gulf Coast University) recipient of DELTA OMEGA DELTA this grant. EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE ELLEN SCHALK-FEILD This grant FUND MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP has given me SO much hope Jenna Kung (Theta Iota, Baylor FUND and peace for this upcoming University) Isabella Cramner (Epsilon Kappa, academic year. My financial California State University, Fullerton) situation during my college DENSLOW SCHOLARSHIP Elizabeth Farmer (Beta Nu, University education has been less than FUND of Utah) desirable, and being able to have Veebha Havaldar (Zeta Upsilon, Case Priscilla Hasjim (Iota Nu, University of the support that you have given Western Reserve University) California San Diego) pushes back SO many emotional Amanda Kraft (Delta Omicron, Portland and financial barriers." DIANE KASKEWSKY PERREAULT State University) Hannah Leyhew (Iota Chi, Middle EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE Tennessee State University) - ASHA BROWN (BETA NU, GRANT Savannah Matherly (Zeta Omega, UNIVERSITY OF UTAH) Harper Irene Glisczinski (Gamma Sigma, Western Carolina University) University of Rhode Island) Caroline O'Neill (Omega, Washington COURTNEY STEWART ASHLEY State University) KNIGHT NELSON MEMORIAL DONNA SMITH CHERECK SCHOLARSHIP FUND EPSILON CHI CHAPTER SCHOLARSHIP FUND Clara Oscarson (Epsilon Kappa, Kayla Obst (Alpha Phi, The University of EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE California State University, Fullerton) Texas at Austin) FUND Julia Kathryn Ronemus (Epsilon Chi, DANIELA CAMARENA-ROMERO DOROTHEA DEKAY SCHICK University of North Carolina at FUND FOR ALPHA OMICRON SCHOLARSHIP FUND Chapel Hill) Chloe Liebentritt (Xi, University of CHAPTER Nebraska - Lincoln) EPSILON KAPPA SCHOLARSHIP Lane Elizabeth Gray (Alpha Omicron, Aliya Oceguera (Xi, University of IN MEMORY OF CHRISTIAN The Ohio State University) Nebraska - Lincoln) NEIL BEHLE DARLINE REILEY COOLEY Danielle Alam (Epsilon Kappa, DOROTHY KNAUSS UEHLING California State University, Fullerton) SCHOLARSHIP FUND FUND Rachel Snegg (Epsilon Kappa, California Isaura Funes (Beta Chi, Willamette Phoebe Clark (Kappa, University of State University, Fullerton) University) Wisconsin - Madison) Riley Sarsany (Kappa, University of EPSILON PSI CHAPTER 30TH DEE DEE BYCHAK STOLSHEK Wisconsin - Madison) ANNIVERSARY SCHOLARSHIP MEMORIAL FUND Nicole Kirkorian (Epsilon Psi, University Victoria Katherine Field (Epsilon Kappa, EDNA HOFFMAN BOWMAN of California, Irvine) California State University, Fullerton) FUND Nancy Trnka (Gamma Tau, Oklahoma ERICA LYN BOWDEN DELTA EPSILON 50TH City University) MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ANNIVERSARY SCHOLARSHIP FUND FUND EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE Lillian Martinez-Ross (Beta Lambda, Natalie Maxhimer-Rodriguez (Omicron, FUND IN HONOR OF KAPPA University of Arizona) Baker University) OMICRON Alexis Paige Olsen (Theta Upsilon, Sarah Beychok (Kappa Omicron, High ERNESTINE FISCHER University of South Carolina) Point University) LAMBERTUS FUND Allison Apmann (Iota Omega, Carthage College) 18 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Maddie Bulman (Sigma, University of Hayley Koon (Alpha Eta, University of Iowa) Mount Union) "I am SO Caitlin Fish (lota Psi, Elon University) Destiny Kramer (Theta Iota, Baylor grateful to Nidhi Gundimeda (Theta, University of University) receive this Michigan) Molly Lucas Lukas (Alpha Upsilon, The Michelle Lee (Zeta Upsilon, Case University of Alabama) scholarship. Western Reserve University) Izzy Maddaloni (Omega, Washington I will never State University) be able to FLORENCE ARMSTRONG Natalie Maxhimer-Rodriguez (Omicron, say 'thank Baker University) SCHOLARSHIP FUND you' enough. The relief I already Tam Thanh My Ngo (Alpha, DePauw feel is immense, and I know Natalee Grace Coates (Iota Omicron, University) University of Lynchburg) this scholarship will help me Nikol Nikolova (Zeta Omicron, be successful in my upcoming Vanderbilt University) FLORENCE STAIGER LONN school year. I am SO proud to Aliya Oceguera (Xi, University of be a Gamma Iota, and I am SO EDUCATIONAL FUND Nebraska Lincoln) honored to receive this. Thank Macie Faye Barker (Alpha, DePauw Grayson Pitt (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt University) University) you SO much." Amanda Bedony (Gamma Chi, Stetson Lauren Roncone (Alpha Eta, University University) of Mount Union) MADDIE K. AVERGONZADO Sarah Benitez Mendoza (Iota Pi, Kate Smith (Zeta Omicron, Vanderbilt (GAMMA IOTA, UNIVERSITY OF Houston Christian University) University) FLORIDA) Brynn Busta (Sigma, University of Iowa) Jaylene Sosa (Beta Eta, Florida State Isabella Cramner (Epsilon Kappa, University) California State University, Fullerton) Sarah Stucky (Rho, University of FRANCES TUTTLE CASBARIAN Gianna Foisy (Beta Phi, Bowling Green Washington) ALPHA TAU SCHOLARSHIP State University) Cassandra Lynn Swanson (Alpha Pi, Saki Fukuda (Alpha, DePauw University) University of North Dakota) FUND Tatiana Garcia (Beta Eta, Florida State Jessica Wenner (Iota Psi, Elon University) Sara Lauren Allen (Alpha Tau, University University) Olivia Florence Zimmerman (Zeta Tau, of New Hampshire) Paige Handy (Zeta Lambda, University of Villanova University) Virginia) GENEVIEVE M. RASCO Lexi Harwick (Theta Omega, Marquette FLORIDA SCHOLARSHIP FUND SCHOLARSHIP FUND University) Ashley Pendleton (Delta Chi, William Alexis Glaser (Beta, Albion College) Woods University) GERTRUDE GALBRAITH "I am so FOUNDERS' FELLOWSHIP WIEGMAN SCHOLARSHIP grateful FUND FUND for your Lilli Bernier (Zeta Rho, Northwood Madison Wilson (Alpha Pi, University of support! University) North Dakota) These Grace Manes (Theta Psi, Columbia funds are University) GLORIA MAE NELSON so helpful MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP and allow me to focus on my FRANCES PATTON WILSON schoolwork instead of worrying FUND FOR ALPHA LAMBDA SCHOLARSHIP FUND too much about finances. This Melia Alexa Lachinski (Alpha Lambda, Macie Faye Barker (Alpha, DePauw University of Minnesota) year I will be starting my first University) Megan Leigh Ramnarace (Alpha Lambda, year of medical school at Cornell. Saki Fukuda (Alpha, DePauw University) University of Minnesota) I will be the first physician in Paige Rhea Hart (Alpha, DePauw my family. This would not be University) possible without financial help Chloe Mei Krueger (Alpha, DePauw HANNAH KEENAN University) SCHOLARSHIP FUND from scholarships. Sammie Pinnick (Alpha, DePauw Lindsey Fischer (Delta Nu, Iowa State University) University) SARAH STUCKY (RHO, Claudia Servaes (Alpha, DePauw Jacqueline Sierra Maze (Gamma Chi, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON) University) Stetson University) THE LYRE 19 FOUNDATION Reagan Alyse Nieves (Delta Omega, Chelsea Mansulich (Zeta Psi, Loyola University of Kentucky) University New Orleans) "I am deeply Abbie Petrucelli (Zeta Omicron, Lily Rafanan (Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, grateful Vanderbilt University) San Luis Obispo) Camille Weindorf (Beta Sigma, for being HARRIET THWING HOLDEN University of Georgia) a recipient SCHOLARSHIP FUND Matigan Williams (Alpha, DePauw of an University) Alpha Chi Meredith Ann Kaufmann (Alpha Foundation Lambda, University of Minnesota) HORTENSE OSMUN MILLER- scholarship. This support not Elliana Pahlman (Alpha Lambda, University of Minnesota) HORTENSE MILLER ADAMS only alleviates my financial Brylie Aaryn Prawl (Alpha Lambda, burden, but it also motivates me SCHOLARSHIP FUND University of Minnesota) to excel in my studies. Thank you Annie Abigail Murphy (Theta, University of Michigan) for believing in my potential and HELEN B. STEG SCHOLARSHIP investing in my future." FUND HOWARD AND JEANNE KARR ELIZABETH WILLIAMS Katie Regnerus (Delta Zeta, Central EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE Michigan University) (EPSILON ZETA, AUBURN FUND Jadyn Sayles (Delta Zeta, Central UNIVERSITY) Allison Apmann (Iota Omega, Carthage Michigan University) College) Chloe Liebentritt (Xi, University of Lilli Bernier (Zeta Rho, Northwood HELEN LEYTZE RADCLIFFE Nebraska Lincoln) University) SCHOLARSHIP FUND Madi Flythe (Theta Lambda, Clemson Zoe Alana Parsons (Nu, University of University) JANE GRABOWSKI SEIFERT Colorado Boulder) Alexis Paige Olsen (Theta Upsilon, HALL OF COMMITMENT University of South Carolina) GRADUATE FUND HONORABLE HARRISON W. Kira Cooley (Kappa Sigma, The EWING FELLOWSHIP IOTA IOTA ALUMNAE CHAPTER University of Southern Mississippi) Ainsley Carpenter (Theta, University of SCHOLARSHIP FUND Michigan) Sarah Stucky (Rho, University of JANET H RADFORD Ellie Elander (Kappa Chi, Florida Gulf Washington) EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE Coast University) FUND IOTA LAMBDA CHAPTER Gabi Parks (Gamma Iota, University of "I am SCHOLARSHIP FUND Florida) writing to Sydney Sharrers (lota Lambda, Texas express Christian University) JANET MARIE BRADLEY BROWN my sincere BALL BREECE MEMORIAL gratitude IOTA PHI CHAPTER SCHOLARSHIP FUND for your SCHOLARSHIP Emily Butch Bennett (lota Chi, Middle generous Avery Kantor (lota Phi, Quinnipiac Tennessee State University) support through the Patricia University) O'Brien Frechette Scholarship. JEANNE SCHARNBERG STAFF I am truly honored and JAN CRANDALL MEMORIAL appreciative to have been SCHOLARSHIP FUND SCHOLARSHIP FUND selected as a recipient of this Kaylee Ashlyn Arsenault (Alpha Mu, Isabella Joy Nelson (Phi, University of award. Thank you so much, Indiana University) Kansas) Chloe Eades (Alpha Mu, Indiana and in my future I hope to give University) back to the Alpha Chi Omega JANE BIRD LOHSE Caroline Weaver Flora (Alpha Mu, community in meaningful ways just as you have done." SCHOLARSHIP Indiana University) Mia Fox (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Devyn Carmichael (Xi, University of Sydney Hollars (Alpha Mu, Indiana Nebraska - Lincoln) JENNYFER PARK (GAMMA, University) Kelly Lynn Kozol (Xi, University of NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY) Laina Lillge (Alpha Mu, Indiana Nebraska - Lincoln) University) 20 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Victoria Lukyan (Alpha Mu, Indiana JOAN ROSSIN STEPHANS KAREN E. WEIR MEMORIAL University) UNDERGRADUATE FUND Elia Makinson (Alpha Mu, Indiana EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE Izzy Maddaloni (Omega, Washington University) GRANT State University) Lucy Lauren Muntel (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) Paige Corsi (Gamma Sigma, University of Nour Razzouk (Alpha Mu, Indiana Rhode Island) KUERGELEIS SCHOLARSHIP University) FUND FOR DELTA CHIAT Marissa Anne Richmond (Alpha Mu, JODY BAYER MARTINDILL WILLIAM WOODS Indiana University) SCHOLARSHIP FUND Lexi Clifford (Delta Chi, William Woods Corinne Smith (Alpha Mu, Indiana Macie Faye Barker (Alpha, DePauw University) University) University) Macie Edwards (Delta Chi, William Amelia Marilyn Tungett (Alpha Mu, Tam Thanh My Ngo (Alpha, DePauw Woods University) Indiana University) University) LARETTA MATTHEWS GARLAND JEANNETTA LAND FUND JOHN EDWARD HURLEY, JR. SCHOLARSHIP FUND Paige Armstrong (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn SCHOLARSHIP Gracie Zimmerman (Beta Sigma, University) Anna Cashatt (Phi, University of Kansas) University of Georgia) Elizabeth MacKinnon Campbell-Work (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn University) Taylor Durst (Phi, University of Kansas) Corinne Cheramie-White (Epsilon Zeta, Lily Reeder (Phi, University of Kansas) LAUREN SNOW MEMORIAL Auburn University) SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR CHI Kayly Cofer (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn JONES MEMORIAL CHAPTER University) SCHOLARSHIP FUND Annika Laido (Chi, Oregon State Reilly Cate Ferguson (Epsilon Zeta, Karinn Elizabeth Johnson (Alpha, University) Auburn University) DePauw University) Emily Lunsford (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn Mallory Mundy (Alpha, DePauw LAVONE WOHLBIER BARTINE/ University) University) Elizabeth Williams (Epsilon Zeta, LISA BARTINE FERGUSON Auburn University) SCHOLARSHIP FUND JUDITH THOMAS VIGOR Ashley Pendleton (Delta Chi, William SCHOLARSHIP FUND JESSIE FANYO PAYNE FUND Woods University) Grace Manes (Theta Psi, Columbia Armani Rose Benson (Epsilon Kappa, Abby Peters (Delta Chi, William Woods University) California State University, Fullerton) University) JUDITH ZIEGLER PHILLIPS JEWEL PATTERSON HOWARD FUND IN HONOR OF GAMMA SCHOLARSHIP FUND LAMBDA "I was Mary Lavorato (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama) Lily Reiter (Gamma Sigma, University of worrying Rhode Island) about JO ANN C KENT EDUCATIONAL the next JULIE ANN TAMBORINO academic ASSISTANCE FUND FOR MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP year and GAMMA CHAPTER FUND just talking Christina Vargas (Gamma, Northwestern University) Tessa Neal (Theta Upsilon, University of to my family about it when this South Carolina) email came in! I cannot express my gratitude to Alpha Chi as this JOAN ROSSIN STEPHANS grant has helped me immensely. GRADUATE EDUCATIONAL JULIE CAIN BURKHARD BETA It relieves SO much of my stress ASSISTANCE FUND SIGMA SCHOLARSHIP FUND for the upcoming year, and the Macie Edwards (Delta Chi, William Hannah O'Kelley (Beta Sigma, University blessing came at just at the right Woods University) of Georgia) time! Thank you SO much!" Gracie Zimmerman (Beta Sigma, University of Georgia) MAHNOOR ZAHID (ALPHA, DEPAUW UNIVERSITY) THE LYRE 21 FOUNDATION LILLIAN POLLACK CAWLEY MARILYN PADDOCK BLANCH MERLYNN HARRIS PITCHER FUND IN HONOR OF GAMMA FUND FOR GAMMA IOTA BETA NU/BETA XI FUND LAMBDA CHAPTER Asha Brown (Beta Nu, University of Hailey Reynolds (Iota Tau, California Maddie K. Avergonzado (Gamma Iota, Utah) State University San Marcos) University of Florida) Elizabeth Farmer (Beta Nu, University Maggie Shaw (Zeta Chi, Muhlenberg of Utah) College) MARION MORITZ FUND Mikaela Lawrence (Xi, University of MIRIAM DECKER SCHOLARSHIP LINA BAUM VAN ROY Nebraska - Lincoln) FUND SCHOLARSHIP FUND Aliya Oceguera (Xi, University of Phoebe Bunting (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn Caitlyn Rayne Pratt (Iota Pi, Houston Nebraska Lincoln) University) Christian University) Lexi Harwick (Theta Omega, Marquette MARJORIE CARTER BRECKNER University) LISA HANCOCK REHRIG MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Brianna Ma (Epsilon Psi, University of California, Irvine) EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE Hayley Koon (Alpha Eta, University of Bekah Seamans (Alpha Eta, University of Mount Union) FUND Mount Union) Maddie Ross (Epsilon Omega, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo) MARSHA KING GRADY NU NU ALUMNAE CHAPTER SCHOLARSHIP FUND FUND LOVELIKEPIPER NURSING Grace Judith Johnston (Alpha Upsilon, Lane Elizabeth Gray (Alpha Omicron, The University of Alabama) FUND The Ohio State University) Emily Brown (Phi, University of Kansas) Caitlyn Rose Cobb (Phi, University of MARY EMMA GRIFFITH OMICRON CHAPTER Kansas) MARSHALL FELLOWSHIP FUND CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP Molly Lucas Lukas (Alpha Upsilon, The MARGARET COATES SAWYER University of Alabama) FUND MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Mahnoor Zahid (Alpha, DePauw Natalie Maxhimer-Rodriguez (Omicron, University) Baker University) Fiona Finnigan (Chi, Oregon State University) MARY FRANCES GUILBERT MARIAN MCKEE SMITH- MARIANI-BIGLER CONTINUING ROSALIE MCKINNEY JACKSON EDUCATION FUND Priscilla Hasjim (Iota Nu, University of SCHOLARSHIP FUND California San Diego) Jenna Abdel-Rahim (Iota Rho, Loyola "Thank you Amanda Kraft (Delta Omicron, Portland University Chicago) State University) for your Alexa Beck (Kappa Omicron, High Point financial University) Helaina Elizabeth Behm (Beta Phi, MARY MCMURTRY WINKLER support towards my Bowling Green State University) FUND FOR EPSILON ZETA education at TEXAS A&N Lilli Bernier (Zeta Rho, Northwood CHAPTER Texas A&M University) Paige Armstrong (Epsilon Zeta, Auburn Campbell Blum (Delta Epsilon, University. Alpha Chi Omega has University) blessed me with a multitude of Southeast Missouri State University) Corinne Cheramie-White (Epsilon Zeta, Lindsey Fischer (Delta Nu, Iowa State opportunities and relationships Auburn University) University) that will support my success in Nidhi Gundimeda (Theta, University of the long run. I will use these MARY STARKWEATHER FAUST Michigan) funds to continue working hard Veebha Havaldar (Zeta Upsilon, Case SCHOLARSHIP FUND next year while maintaining my Western Reserve University) Campbell Blum (Delta Epsilon, 4.0 GPA. Thank you again." Eden Faith Niebrugge (Upsilon, Millikin Southeast Missouri State University) University) Nina Whitney (Zeta Rho, Northwood DANIELLA BRIA PETERSON Marlie Nochomovitz (Beta Lambda, University) (ZETA NU, TEXAS A&M University of Arizona) UNIVERSITY) Tina Valenza (Zeta Eta, Bradley University) 22 ALPHA CHI OMEGA ROVIRA FAMILY TRUST THETA PSI CHAPTER FUND IN "I am SO LEADERSHIP AWARD MEMORY OF RACHEL SWETT very grateful Victoria Katherine Field (Epsilon Kappa, Grace Manes (Theta Psi, Columbia to be a California State University, Fullerton) University) scholarship recipient! I RUTH PADDOCK MAUGER THETA UPSILON CHAPTER will attend FUND SCHOLARSHIP FUND law school Chloe Eades (Alpha Mu, Indiana Noelle Sarafian (Theta Upsilon, SO that I can University) University of South Carolina) build a larger table for women to Mia Fox (Alpha Mu, Indiana University) sit. The magnitude of joy that our UPSILON CHAPTER sisterhood has brought me has SALLY CALLAHAN EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE truly changed my life." SCHOLARSHIP FUND FUND Megan Leigh Ramnarace (Alpha Lambda, Audrey Louise Soetermans (Upsilon, - CHELSEA MANSULICH (ZETA University of Minnesota) Millikin University) PSI, LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW Colby Ronald Wygal (Upsilon, Millikin ORLEANS) SHAWN MARGARET University) DONNELLEY SCHOLARSHIP FUND VIRGINIA KELLY KARNES PATRICIA O'BRIEN FRECHETTE Samantha Guillote (Zeta Psi, Loyola SCHOLARSHIP FUND SCHOLARSHIP FOR KAPPA University New Orleans) Kate Beckemeier (Alpha Beta, Purdue CHAPTER Chelsea Mansulich (Zeta Psi, Loyola University) University New Orleans) Samantha Paguia (Alpha Beta, Purdue Riley Dreher (Delta Nu, Iowa State University) University) SIGMA CHAPTER EDUCATIONAL Parker Sikora (Alpha Beta, Purdue Taylor Durst (Phi, University of Kansas) Harper Irene Glisczinski (Gamma Sigma, ASSISTANCE FUND University) Grace Sojka (Alpha Beta, Purdue University of Rhode Island) Maddie Bulman (Sigma, University of University) Brianna Nicole Young (Delta Lambda, Iowa) Ripon College) Brynn Busta (Sigma, University of Iowa) Haley Young (Delta Lambda, Ripon Kaitlyn Goodman (Sigma, University of WESCHE STRASSER College) Iowa) SCHOLARSHIP FUND Emilee Siebenthal (Alpha Eta, University PATRICIA O'BRIEN FRECHETTE SUSAN ESCO CHANDLER FUND of Mount Union) SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR Libby Ingham (Beta Lambda, University of Arizona) ZETA NU CHAPTER 25TH GAMMA CHAPTER Stella Bishop (Gamma, Northwestern ANNIVERSARY FUND University) SUSIE AND JOHN L. ADAMS Angela Moreno (Zeta Nu, Texas A&M Jennyfer Park (Gamma, Northwestern EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE University) University) Daniella Bria Peterson (Zeta Nu, Texas FUND IN HONOR OF ALPHA Emma Marie Salem (Gamma, A&M University) PHI CHAPTER Northwestern University) Christina Vargas (Gamma, Northwestern Kayla Obst (Alpha Phi, The University of ZETA PHI CHAPTER Texas at Austin) University) EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE Maya Mei Wong (Gamma, Northwestern University) TEXAS SCHOLARSHIP FUND FUND Anna Neupert (Kappa Tau, University of Melanie Calderon (Zeta Phi, Cornell Connecticut) University) ROBINETTE FAMILY LEGACY Katie Lynn Pelletier-Hoblock (Zeta Phi, SCHOLARSHIP FUND Cornell University) THETA PSI CHAPTER Ava Bozzo (Delta Pi, University of Natalina Josetta Putrino (Zeta Phi, Tennessee, Knoxville) EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE Cornell University) FUND Fabiola Villanueva (Theta Psi, Columbia ZETA PI EDUCATIONAL University) ASSISTANCE FUND Ashley Hung (Zeta Pi, Arizona State University) THE LYRE 23 FOUNDATION Megan Castles Sittig, Delta Rho Kathleen Whittemore Castro, Alpha Psi Monica M. Cepero, Beta Eta Jenny Winterstein Champlin, Psi* Susan Esco Chandler, Psi Donna Smith Chereck, Alpha Phi* 2023-24 Zohra Choudhry, Zeta Theta Dr. Elise Margaret Christopher, Gamma lota Melissa Chruszch, Alpha Pi Inja McGehee Chung, Alpha Psi Caitlin Cobb, Psi* Leadership Suzanne Artenian Cobb, Epsilon** Heather L. Coleman, Delta Psi** Kathy Warner Connelly, Delta Zeta June Smith Cook, Alpha Mu Kathryn DiLeo Copple, Beta Psi* Circle Jenn Grenzebach Cornell, Zeta Lambda Holly Michaels Cowx, Gamma Iota*** Julie Aldag Crawford, Kappa Ashlee Townsend Cribb Woliver, Epsilon Phi* Betty Adams Crouch, Alpha Nu* Nancy Swanner Crowther, Alpha Sigma THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION Jan Culver, Beta Tau IS PLEASED TO HONOR LEADERSHIP Leslie Peterson Cunningham, Gamma CIRCLE DONORS WHO SUPPORTED THE Rho* REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. FUND. WITH Jan Wenzinger Curschman, Beta Phi Sally Mathis Cutler, Alpha Chi GIFTS OF $1,000 OR MORE DURING THE Judith Greig Danziger, Beta Epsilon 2023-24 FISCAL YEAR. Jennifer Rose Daurora, Delta Mary Gratton Davids, Chi *INDICATES LEADERSHIP CIRCLE SILVER ($2,500) Sally Saunders Davis, Alpha Psi **INDICATES LEADERSHIP CIRCLE GOLD ($5,000) Kitty Cannon deKieffer, Epsilon Kappa INDICATES LEADERSHIP CIRCLE PLATINUM ($8,500+) Sandra Denhart, Delta Psi Kathy Cox Denison, Delta Rho Ann Bruner DiAntonio, Theta Lambda Susie Baker Adams, Alpha Phi* Patricia Dunn Blume, Sigma Polly Kubesch Dobbs, Gamma Mu* Judy Evans Anderson, Alpha Lambda Georgia Stevens Boatman, Alpha Rho Karen Kruer Dobel, Nu Jari Askins, Psi Jennifer Bellomy Bonenfant, Gamma Jennifer Doidge Weilbach, Epsilon Theta Mary Kacmarcik Baker, Delta Mu Chi* Sheila Dolan, Omega Sylvia Baker-Moore, Delta Zeta Diane Polin Boone, Beta Tau* Elizabeth Doggett Donaldson, Alpha Sheri Baldwin, Phi Cathy Smith Boragno, Delta Sigma** Shawn M. Donnelley, Zeta Psi* Julie Pannier Balk, Beta Nu Kami Singley Borden, Epsilon Zeta Sharon Goff Drescher, Epsilon Upsilon Cindy Hoard Ballard, Zeta Rho Maya Lippert Botvinick, Epsilon Kappa Judith Westwood Dresser, Alpha Rho Rhonda Anderson Baltier, Theta Kappa Erin Peterson Boyce, Alpha Chi Jean Chapuran Durling, Beta Tau Dr. Paula Curlee Barnes, Delta Rho* Cindy Hayden Braaten, Alpha Gamma Laura Lasmanis Easter, Theta Rho Sarah Barr, Zeta Omicron Jennifer Vanek Bradway, Mu Barbara Elfring Eaton, Beta Epsilon LaVone Wohlbier Bartine, Alpha Lambda Mikelle Holt Brady, Alpha* Ronda Eckhardt, Nu Ruth Ann Bartlett, Beta Sigma** MaryAnn Plichta Brown, Beta Delta Kristin Miller Edwards, Beta Epsilon* Emilie Van Hook Beagle, Upsilon*** Patricia Bruner, Beta Delta Sandy Dohner Edwards, Alpha Upsilon Marjorie Whitman Beardsley, Rho Diane Bryant, Delta Rho Susan Marie Eich, Zeta Upsilon Dr. Caryn Beck-Dudley, Beta Xi* Christine Tornga Bush, Theta JoEllen Breshock Eidam, Alpha Beta Dalia Nazzal Begin, Epsilon Lambda Kathy Wise Butkiewicz, Alpha Chi* Tracy Back Embree, Theta Omicron Kristin Hartung Berry, Kappa* Cheryl Jones Buxton, Beta Epsilon Pam Bergmeyer Engelhard, Delta Epsilon Bonnie Bacnik Biggs, Epsilon Chi Lorraine Riffle Caron, Beta Sigma Alex Ercolani, Gamma Chi Diane Wilson Blackwelder, Omicron* Harriet Carratt, Beta Eta Diane Ellis Erdman, Kappa* Erin Schmidt Bley, Psi Heather Carrio, Psi** Rita Poetter Evans, Beta Sigma Leslie Abramsky Block, Theta Tau** Tanya Rash Case, Alpha Gamma Kaye L. Evleth, Delta Psi*** 24 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Rosemary Fairhead, Delta Rho Rich Hemmeter Thomasina Pierce Madden, Zeta Eta Stacey Anderson Farrell, Alpha Phi Kay Henderson, Gamma Iota Katy Harrison Madsen, Psi Judy Garwood Fecel, Alpha Beta* Jenni Boethin Hendricks, Delta Omicron Andy Ennis Mannering, Delta Rho Kori Whitener Fellows, Alpha Phi*** Amanda Williams Hene, Beta Sigma Paula Marino, Epsilon Zeta Mary Lynn Ferguson-McHugh, Delta Lynne Biggio Herndon, Alpha Mary Carter Duncan Martin, Alpha Sigma Upsilon Nu* Joyce Schaffer Fleming, Omicron Lindsay Hicks, Alpha Chi Yvette Martinez, Zeta Nu* Sherry Snell Forsee, Delta Epsilon** Deirdre Reason Hill, Epsilon Zeta Antoinette Swain Marwitz, Delta Allison J. Foster, Gamma Chi Kristin Himsel, Alpha Lynn Williams Mathis, Beta Sigma Sylvia Miller Foster, Beta Eta Deirdre Hirner, Alpha Nu Patricia Bates Mattingley, Beta Zeta*** Ellie Smith Fox, Psi Bonnie Andrews Hockema, Alpha Beta Michele Norton Mattoon, Rho* Lorna Stoakes Fox, Alpha Lambda* Lisa Draper Hoegerman, Epsilon Psi Carla Henke Mattson, Alpha Nu Angela D. Freeland, Zeta Eta Sharon Ponder Holbrook, Iota Hon. Margaret Lisbeth Maxwell, Beta Amy Jo Gabel Janis Rose Hurter, Zeta Omicron Lambda Katie Lampinen Gaffin, Delta Zeta* Eileen Ishizue, Delta Sigma Maxine Bizon Mazur, Alpha Tau*** Shannon Gallagher-Bolton, Pi Dr. Jennifer Jackson, Gamma lota Kim Baldwin McClure, Gamma Omicron Patty Renick Garrard, Beta Eta Lisa Pettett Jeran, Zeta Upsilon* Diana McCutchen, Beta Lambda Mary Werries Gendry, Upsilon Ginger Sears Johnson, Zeta Omicron* Linda Kirven McDougal, Alpha Upsilon Traci Simpson Gerdes, Gamma Chi* Margaret Jones Johnson, Omicron Mary Wightman McKane, Alpha Beta Cassie Gerhardt, Alpha Pi* Dawn deGraffenried Jones, Alpha Omega Courtney McKenna, Gamma Sigma Anne Folrath Gerhart, Alpha Nu Joann Joyce, Epsilon Mu Susan Terry McLendon, Gamma Phi* Stacia Baughman Giese, Delta Rho Judy Judson, Gamma* Dina Chu Mead, Delta Mu Marykay Steffen Gillam, Epsilon lota Alissa Kaiser, lota Sigma Judy Meador, Gamma Caroline Long Giunipero, Epsilon Chi Eve Kampmeinert, Alpha Zeta Michelle Lee Merrick, Gamma Zeta Laura Morrison Glenn, Beta Epsilon* Amy Kates, Zeta Phi Karen Aunan Miley, Alpha Lambda Katie Thomas Glick, Alpha Beta Steven Katz Nicole Collier, Epsilon Lambda Kathy Davids Gore, Beta Lambda Krista Diane Kauper, Zeta Omicron Ruth Bender Moeller, Beta Phi Marsha King Grady, Alpha Upsilon** Jan Kendall, Delta Sigma Ellyssa Morgan, Rho* Pam Haymes Graham, Alpha Phi Melanie Brammer Kilgore, Delta Valerie Molina Morrison, Theta Sigma** Linda Mohs Granato, Kappa Upsilon* Leslie Luecke Moss, Gamma Rho Suzanne Smith Grant, Alpha Phi Kelly Lynn Kilgour, Kappa Nu* Krystal Kohler Murer, Gamma Tau Leigh Vivevette Grantham, Epsilon Zeta Elizabeth Kinder, Zeta Eta Diane Davis Murphy, Epsilon Psi* Carrie Gray, Alpha Mu Stephanie Marie King, Theta Tau* Amy Colvin Mustafa, Beta Phi Cindy Gray, Alpha Upsilon Donna McGrath Klinge, Epsilon Kappa* Jolie Napier-Vea, lota Tau Sue Stone Greathouse, Delta Psi Carolyn Easterling Knapp, Psi* Jackie Rohlmann Neuschaefer, Theta Sonja Greenbaum, Zeta Psi Julie Black Kolman, Delta Kappa* Omega Denise M. Griffey, Mu Kristin Koppen, Delta Chi** Beverly Wood Nichols, Alpha Nu Leslie Brodhead Griffith, Kappa* Suzanne Rizer Kuch in memory of Helen Kimberly Fulton Nightingale, Sigma Betsy Bacon Grodhaus, Beta Suzanne Sayre Rizer, Gamma Delta** Jenny French Nirh, Alpha Gamma Martha Clubine Gschneidner, Delta Nu Angie Kucharski, Gamma Jean Schertz Noellsch, Alpha Nu Cathy Volta Habib, Rho Jill Sabatino Lacy, Gamma Mu*** Laura Tubbs Noteware, Beta Psi Sherrie Crouch Hald, Theta Nu Jessica Penland Lahey, Gamma Zeta*** Shawn Lampkin Nutter, Gamma Zeta Ann Weston Hallse, Iota Mary Pat Lambke, Beta Epsilon* Laura Lent Obert, Delta Nu Liza Pugliese Hallsten, Alpha Omega Jennifer Wilhoit Lane, Zeta Pi Joyce Avrett Oliver, Beta Sigma Jane Hamilton-Merritt, Gamma Mu Bobbi Lubberstedt Larsen, Xi* Janet Hamblin Olsen, Gamma Eta Dana Beggs Hancock, Epsilon Omicron Maree Rose Magliocchetti, Alpha Tau* Ann Olson, Alpha Pi* Katie Hanrahan Pierce, Beta Rho Esther Thall Lawson, Alpha Delta Theresa O'Neil, Delta Mu Stephanie Blankemeier Hansen, Pi Sharon Albert Lease, Gamma Tau** Alarie Sims Ornburn, Delta Chi Nancy Irish Harman, Gamma Rho Carolyn Spears Lee, Delta Rho Esther Ocampo Ousborne, Epsilon Rho Angela Costley Harris, Alpha Beta* Diane Lee, Gamma Zeta Frances Dyck Pastuszenski, Epsilon Psi Miekleen D. Hart, Sigma** Shirley Smith LeForge, Delta Theta** Jennifer Lynn Patterson, Beta Phi Michelle Mattox Hawes, Beta Xi Yvonne Lentz-Kelley, Nu Melissa LaRoche Patterson, Gamma Xi Alice Calderwood Hawk, Omicron Ellen Jones Lewis, Omicron Joan M. Perry, Zeta Lambda Susan Corcoran Hayes, Beta Chi Merlene Sweet Lewis, Gamma Iota* Lynn Petrelli, Epsilon Lambda Jennifer Diederich Healy, Alpha Omicron Molly Borgmeyer Lindner, Delta Chi Kim Wood Phillips, Alpha Beta Maureen Heekin, Alpha Omicron Lee Bradford Lucas, Gamma Chi Suzanne Pierce, Alpha Omicron Annamarie Geppert Hellebusch, Zeta Carol Susan Lutz, Epsilon Chi MerLynn Harris Pitcher, Beta Omicron Barbara Schultz Lynch, Alpha Beta*** Audra Levi Priluck, Epsilon Anne E. Helliwell, Gamma Iota* Jessica Levey Mace, Gamma Tau Susan Pontz Pyke, Gamma Xi THE LYRE 25 FOUNDATION Michelle McCain Race, Zeta Eta Mendy Hawk Tarwater, Epsilon Omicron Thelma Simmons Wever, Omicron Melissa Perez Ramirez, Beta Omega Tonya Lee Tatum, Beta Lambda** Tricia Wiese, Delta Nu Karen Carwile Rayburn, Zeta Lambda* Kathy Bowen Taylor, Alpha Chi Margaret L. Wilcox, Delta Chi Susan Seefeldt Rehorn, Zeta Pi** Melissa Ford Taylor, Alpha Upsilon Lark Will, Delta Iota* Dr. Eleanor E. Reynolds, Beta Eta Anne Teaford-Cantor, Alpha Psi* Mary Lou Braddy Williams, Psi Laura Richard, Pi Jennifer Terry, Zeta Lambda Julie Dawson Williamson, Beta Epsilon Jensy Patterson Richards, Sigma*** Jane Elizabeth Thessin, Beta Theta*** Susan Johnson Wilson, Beta Lambda** Sylvia Thompson Richards, Kappa Jan Marshall Thomson, Alpha Gamma Mary McMurtry Winkler, Epsilon Zeta Bridget Guernsey Riordan, Gamma Mu Diane Tolliver, Epsilon Omicron Julie Crider Wisbrock, Phi* Anna Clovis Ritchie, Phi Adrienne Torre, Beta Lambda Corinne E. Wolffe, Zeta Eta* Kelli Rodriguez, Theta Pi Beth Trerotola, Gamma Delta** Lynda Sardou Wood, Epsilon Shirley Voltz Rogers, Gamma Theta* Tori Trobak, Alpha Lambda Katherine Berryman Woolard, Delta Sandra Maison Rosen, Omicron Marianthe Papas, Beta Phi*** Sigma Lizett Huerta Ross, Beta Nu Marcelle St.Germain Tyburski, Alpha Iota Eileen O'Shea Wrubel, Kappa Nu* Linda Douglass Roush, Epsilon Xi Janice R. Van Ekeren, Delta Nu* Megan Lucie Wunderlich, lota Suzanna Dillard Rubottom, lota Lambda Carmen Lee Vance, Alpha Nu Diane Claes Young, Epsilon Tau* Danielle Haynes Russell, Alpha Chi Priscilla Blackie Varner, Theta Sigma Penny Passaro Zamkov, Lambda* Jane Sabatino Lauren Symcox Voth, lota Sigma Dina Zemke, Zeta Phi Babs Sandeen, Epsilon Psi* Nancy Spanich Waiss, Omega* Miriam Abascal Zimms, Gamma Chi Courtney Schmidt, Alpha Jen Gibson Wallach, lota Chi Mary Zinn, Nu Judy Kuergeleis Schmuck, Delta Chi Maggie Dulay Ward, Epsilon Theta Anonymous, Alpha Beta* Melissa Schoen, Phi** Teresa Nash Warner, Psi Anonymous, Alpha Beta** Judy Hendricks Schubert, Alpha Mu Sara Pirk Watkins, Alpha Lambda Anonymous, Kappa Lambda*** Alma Gates Scroggins, Alpha Upsilon Erin Heichelbech Weesner, Gamma Mu Donna Socia Seegers, Epsilon Eta Lee Yoder Welborn, Epsilon Phi Jane Grabowski Seifert, Gamma Omega Mary Seybold Welch, Alpha Beta Nancy Eckert Selleck, Phi Lynette Lemon Wert, Psi Jeannie Saharian Shahnasarian, Alpha Beta Jane Heinrich Shannahan, Gamma 2023-24 OLIVE CIRCLE Betsy Burnham Shannon, Beta Colette Sheehy, Eta The Foundation is pleased to recognize its first members of Olive Kara Dawn Sheets, Gamma Epsilon Circle, a community of donors 30 years old and younger who make Ann Jennings Shepard, Mu** annual gifts to the Real. Strong. Women. Fund. of $500 or more. This Jane Shoppell, Delta Upsilon Amy Sis Short, Delta Kappa special group of young alumnae is committed to furthering the work Margi Richey Shostedt, Alpha Lambda of Alpha Chi Omega through the support of the Foundation. Sheri Shoup, Alpha Phi* Julie Lanaghan Showalter, Iota MEGAN CASTLES SITTIG, DELTA RHO Kara Wehby Shuror, Epsilon Lambda*** MORGAN ELAM, EPSILON ZETA Stephanie York Sibley, Gamma Nu ELAINA LATIMER MAHONEY, GAMMA ZETA Mari-jean Oswald Siehl, Alpha Omicron NICOLE COLLIER, EPSILON LAMBDA Karen White Siladi, Delta Zeta ELLYSSA MORGAN, RHO Sandy Campbell Singleton, Gamma Rho Leslie Smith Sinyard, Beta Sigma Brooke Oliver Smith, Alpha Chi Are you a young alumna interested in joining Olive Circle? Bonnie Wallace Smith, Epsilon Zeta Members of Olive Circle receive all the benefits as other members of Mary Zimpel Smith, Delta Rho Leadership Circle, including invitations to quarterly webinars, special Smitty Smith, Gamma Pi* Carolynn Snyder, Beta Zeta communications throughout the year and opportunities to connect Aggie Theresa Steiner, Beta Eta with Foundation and Fraternity leaders. The first 77 members of Olive Joan Rossin Stephans, Alpha Iota Circle will also receive an exclusive olive badge Darlene Gates Stevenson, Gamma dangle to proudly display their commitment to Delta* Karen Schaffer Stewart, Beta Epsilon*** Alpha Chi Omega. Lynne Wesche Strasser, Alpha Eta*** Julie Stufft, Zeta Upsilon Scan the QR code or visit Suzie McClendon Symcox, Psi*** give.alphachiomega.org/OliveCircle to join! 26 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AXQ AXQ AXQ AXQ AXQ AXQ AXQ Shop ALPHA CH I alpha achiomega APPAREL ALPHACHI UMEGA GIFTS AXQ JEWELRY Remember! A PORTION OF EACH SALE SUPPORTS ALPHA CHI OMEGA! HOUSING Transforming Spaces in the Summer BY KENDALL SUESS (GAMMA EPSILON, ZETA NU (TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY) OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY), This summer, Zeta Nu's facility received new common HOUSING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR area furniture and flooring on the first floor. The NHC and chapter project team worked with Raegan Ford hen classes end and collegians move W Interiors to bring the vision to life. Check out the living away from campus for the summer, the room design selections and the finished product! National Housing Corporation (NHC) begins its work on capital expenditure (CAPEX) projects at many Alpha Chi Omega facilities. A CAPEX project involves using funds from long-term planning to acquire, improve or maintain long-term assets in the chapter facility. The NHC's summer projects can range from new common area paint to full-scale renovations of a facility. During these projects, the NHC works closely with designers, architects and a local chapter project team, which is commonly made up of the chapter president, vice president facility operations, chapter advisor and facility operations advisor. LIVING ROOM DESIGN BOARD BY RAEGAN FORD In the early stages of a project when the NHC begins INTERIORS FOR THE ZETA NU SUMMER PROJECT meeting with the chapter project team and interior designer, plans are made for the ideas, vision and BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) goal of the project. The interior design team then takes the ideas and presents design selections and The Beta Eta chapter facility is currently undergoing a plans. In addition, the NHC and chapter project 4,000 square foot expansion and full-scale renovation team collaborate monthly before and throughout that began this past summer and has a projected a project to discuss design elements such as colors, completion of summer 2025! During this past patterns, furniture styles, lighting and more to recruitment, the ensure the collegiate members feel at home in their collegiate members updated space. were able to display the future exterior This summer was a busy time for the NHC! We're rendering of the facility excited to highlight some of our CAPEX projects as well as share fun at facilities across the country, all in service of the design elements such as NHC's mission to enhance the Real. Strong. Women. paint swatches, patterns Experience by providing safe and competitive and fixtures that will facilities where members connect, lead, grow and be installed during the serve! renovation. FRONT EXTERIOR OF BETA ETA 28 ALPHA CHI OMEGA BEFORE ZETA NU'S LIVING ROOM BEFORE ZETA NU'S LIVING ROOM AFTER RENDERING OF THE BOARDS DISPLAYED DURING RECRUITMENT SHOWING FUTURE FRONT EXTERIOR DESIGN ELEMENTS THAT WILL BE INCORPORATED DURING OF BETA ETA THE BETA ETA RENOVATION THE LYRE 29 2/5 ETA PHI OWLING GREEN TATE UNIVERSITY) eta Phi chapter received ogrades to first floor common ea furniture in the chapter om, study room and entry ay. TA PHI'S TV ROOM BEFORE BETA PHI'S TV ROOM AFTER ORMAL LIVING ROOM AT LAMBDA FORMAL LIVING ROOM AT LAMBDA TER BEFORE LAMBDA (SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY) Lambda chapter received new paint, flooring and furniture for its formal living room, TV room and piano room! THETA UPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA) Theta Upsilon chapter had a renovation to the front facade of its facility including expanding and covering the second-floor balcony, adding architectural elements to the ALPHA CHI OMEGA new roof and painting the exterior siding. The serving area, guest bathrooms and entry way flooring were also upgraded. 515 THE FRONT FAÇADE OF THETA UPSILON BEFORE THE FRONT FAÇADE OF THETA UPSILON AFTER KAPPA RHO'S LIVING ROOM BEFORE KAPPA RHO'S LIVING ROOM AFTER KAPPA RHO (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE) Kappa Rho chapter received new furniture in its common area and study room. The university also renovated the kitchen space, painted common areas, added decorative wallpaper and upgraded light fixtures. Building Belonging BY AMY COLVIN MUSTAFA (BETA PHI, BOWLING highest belonging scores range from membership S GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY), SENIOR DIRECTOR OF of 22 to 498, are chapters at both public and private EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT, AND EMILY ROSE institutions, and are located throughout the counti JACOBSEN (IOTA CHI, MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE Meaningful sisterhood is built across Alpha Chi Or UNIVERSITY), DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION experiences! A Ipha Chi Omega annually administers to The Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama) ch collegiate members the Alpha Chi Sisterhood president, Mary Gibbons Miller, shared that belong Survey, partnering with Dyad Strategies, a is fostered through connecting at the chapter facili research consulting organization that supports colleges, and a big/little program that prioritizes time to get universities and national organizations in their data to know each other. She adds, "We have a strong n collection initiatives. Alpha Chi Omega's Sisterhood member period in which new members get connect Survey focuses on collecting data on the sisterhood to older members in the house in a variety of ways experience, member development outcomes, attitudes We also have many sisterhood events throughout and beliefs around health and safety topics, the housing experience and general demographic information. The ALPHA UPSILON CHAPTER SISTERS sisterhood experience is measured using the sisterhood schemas which include belonging, support and encouragement, accountability, common purpose and shared social experiences. In the past three years since the Alpha Chi Sisterhood Survey started, Alpha Chi Omega has seen significant gains in key areas of sisterhood, in particular in the area of belonging. Belonging is about sisters feeling appreciated for who they are, connected, included and having sisters that are a great source of encouragement. In fact, the average belonging score has risen a tenth of a point (three standard deviations) in the last two years. These gains align with our national efforts to focus on boosting belonging and affinity. An interesting component of belonging is that there is not one single type of collegiate chapter that has the strongest belonging score. The 15 chapters with the THE AVERAGE BELONGING SCORE HAS RISEN A TENTH OF A POINT IN THE LAST TWO YEARS - INDICATING AN INCREASED SENSE OF BELONGING IN OUR CHAPTERS! 3.2. ALPHA CHI OMEGA the semester, ranging from fun dress-up parties to casual movie nights and even workout classes! Our executive board members strategically plan events at the beginning of the semester that will allow for our members to relax and have fun together amidst busy 1212 school schedules and extracurricular activities." The Theta (University of Michigan) chapter also has a high sense of belonging, formed through activities like sleepovers before game days, programming across member classes and chapter-wide meals. In prioritizing a transparent and open environment, the Theta chapter president, Nidhi Gundimeda, shared, "In order to build belonging, I strongly believe that Theta chapter has always taken it back to our people. We consistently rely on feedback from our members and intentional conversations to understand where our programming is able to support every member, or what we can work on to reach that point." Nidhi adds, "I feel like we truly create connections among sisters as a result of our intentionality and thoughtfulness - caring about the details. It is making sure all members, regardless of how they were recruited, are on the composite every single year. It's our Symphony Awards - the weekly shoutouts SO many THETA CHAPTER SISTERS members give and receive just for being themselves. It is the constant support and love for each other at our best, and the compassion and empathy especially We each have experienced connection and hold when we need it most. For these reasons and SO many meaningful memories of feeling a sense of belonging as others, Theta is SO proud to have created a chapter full Alpha Chi Omegas. From our collegiate and/or alumnae of encouragement, connection and belonging today and chapter experiences to volunteer teams we've served every day." on to Alpha Chi events and programs to the chapter reunions or new member class gatherings, Alpha Chi Our collegiate chapters continue to focus on building Omega has had a tremendous impact on each of our meaningful, authentic connections. Nationally, lives. Continuing to utilize the Alpha Chi Sisterhood Alpha Chi Omega has placed a significant emphasis on Survey to drive organizational strategies means more belonging, from sessions at Leadership Academy and Alpha Chi Omega sisters will have an even more Collegiate Growth Academy to webinars and resources meaningful sisterhood experience. shared with collegians and advisors. The impact of this focus is evident in our gains in the sisterhood schema scores. THE LYRE 33 ON CAMPUS Empowered Together NON - EXECUTIVE AND COMMITTEE LEADERSHIR ROLES HELP OUR CHAPTERS AND MEMBERS SUCCEED REGAN BY EMMA WILLE, MARKETING AND CELEBRATING COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST of HER EFFORTS ON BID DAY I n every chapter, there are leaders among the members, extending beyond the executive board. These women step up behind the scenes, assisting in some of the most crucial processes. While they might not hold the highest titles like president, they are key OP to Alpha Chi Omega's success. These non-executive and alpha committee roles not only benefit the chapter, but they also give sisters the opportunity to develop leadership skills and take on exciting new responsibilities. Together, they demonstrate that collaboration and teamwork are key to achieving our goals. For many women, gaining leadership experience is one of the many reasons they choose to join a sorority. And for Regan Hadley (Delta Omega, University of Kentucky), Alpha Chi Omega proved to be a great environment to grow her skills. "It felt like a safe and supportive space where I could step into a leadership Collaboration was essential to Regan's role. She worked role and grow with the encouragement and trust of my hand in hand with the chapter's VP recruitment. sisters," she says. A current junior, Regan began as the She explains, "We collaborated on purchasing assistant vice president recruitment in January 2024. décor, selecting outfits for the rounds and securing She helped manage all things recruitment, assisting sponsorships from brands like Hello Molly, which in the continuous open bidding planning and process, sponsored a sisterhood event during the work week." teaching recruitment strategies and, most importantly, supporting members during recruitment. REGAN (CENTER) TOOK A QUICK BREAK DURING RECRUITMENT FOR A PICTURE Regan knows how demanding recruitment can be, SO showing up for her sisters was the most meaningful part of her role. "Whether it was drama, stress or someone just needed a hug, I made it a priority to be present for all members of the recruitment team," she says. "Recruitment truly is a team effort, and the hard work of every member is essential. I helped put team members in places where they could succeed, and I would check in if they were struggling." 34 ALPHA CHI OMEGA And that's not where the collaboration ends; Regan worked with numerous other chapter members to make sure recruitment went perfectly. She assisted the vice president facility operations in making sure the house was clean and organized before recruitment began, and she collaborated with the vice president public relations and marketing to brainstorm social media ideas, like TikToks. Regan's teamwork and passion were critical to the success of Delta Omega's recruitment. Her contributions not only benefitted the chapter but also her personal growth. "After work week I felt empowered, and I knew that I wanted to contribute to the recruitment team," she says. "I wanted to give back to the chapter that had given me SO much and make a positive impact. This stemmed from the strong sense of belonging and support that I had found within Alpha Chi Omega, and I was eager to pay it forward." Another member who has been able to grow her skills in non-executive leadership roles is Karsyn Dickerson KARSYN (CENTER) ON HER BID DAY - THE START OF HER (Alpha Upsilon, The University of Alabama). Karsyn has LEADERSHIP JOURNEY IN ALPHA CHI taken on several of these kinds of positions, including assistant vice president risk management, nominating Along with leadership skills, she also explains that committee sophomore representative, nominating working with her sisters has helped build connections committee chair and homecoming chair. Now as a that will support her for a lifetime. Each one of Karsyn's current senior she reflects on what these opportunities roles allowed her to work closely with different groups have given her. "These leadership roles have been of sisters. "One of the most rewarding experiences I've essential to my personal growth and collegiate success, had was serving as one of our chapter's homecoming helping me develop skills and confidence that will chairs," she shares. "I enjoyed collaborating with the stay with me far beyond graduation. Through these freshman class to bring energy and engagement, and experiences, I've gained a deeper belief in my abilities as our hard work paid off with Alpha Upsilon securing a leader," she says. its fifth consecutive win of the Kathleen Kramer Homecoming Spirit Cup!" By collaborating with her sisters, Karsyn showed that leadership takes everyone KARSYN to succeed. With graduation approaching, Karsyn is DICKERSON looking forward to taking everything she has learned from these chapter roles into the professional world. Both Regan and Karsyn exemplify how every member can contribute to Alpha Chi Omega's success, regardless of their title. By stepping up and embracing teamwork, members support their chapter, their sisters and their own personal growth. Through collaboration and dedication, they demonstrate that we must work together in order to seek the heights. THE LYRE 35 COLLEGIATE CORNER ARDEN (LEFT IN BOTH PICTURES) AND TAYLOR (RIGHT) HAVE BEEN BY EACH OTHER'S SIDES FROM KINDERGARTEN TO TODAY AS CHAPTER PRESIDENTS OF TWO ALPHA CHI OMEGA CHAPTERS IN MISSISSIPPI. From hen Taylor Browning walked into her W kindergarten classroom, she sat down in her assigned seat next to Arden Robbins, Childhood who quickly told her, "We're best friends now." Fifteen years later, they still are but never could have imagined the ways their friendship would grow - all the way to Best Friends helping establish their respective Alpha Chi Omega chapters and serving as chapter presidents during the same term! to Chapter Taylor and Arden grew up just minutes apart in the small town of Ingomar, Mississippi, building their Presidents friendship at school, during church programs and as stunt partners in high school cheerleading. Arden describes herself as a "wild, talkative" kid while she says BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, Taylor was a "sweet rule-follower." When they decided BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND on colleges in 2021, they were comforted by the fact COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER that they'd be less than two hours apart, with Taylor "I know when Alpha Chi decided to establish in Oxford, they probably never saw this storyline coming." 36 ALPHA CHI OMEGA choosing the University of Mississippi and Arden member of an SEC chapter and literally build it from heading to Mississippi State University. the ground up," Taylor says. They frequently ask each other for advice and share the joys and challenges of During their first semester of college, the Epsilon their experiences. Upsilon chapter of Alpha Chi Omega was being reestablished at Mississippi State, and Arden was drawn But as incredible as the story is, that's not where it ends. to the founding member experience. She joined fall As Taylor puts it, "I know when Alpha Chi decided 2021 and quickly got involved on committees, helping to establish in Oxford, they probably never saw this build a new legacy of Alpha Chi Omega at the school. storyline coming." Because not only did Taylor and Arden decide to share the founding member experience Meanwhile across the state, Taylor was getting involved in Alpha Chi, they also decided to lead their chapters, on campus but says she could tell she was "missing that all the way to the highest collegiate role! last piece to the puzzle of college." The spring of her first year, Alpha Chi Omega was tabling on campus in The best friends both pursued leadership positions advance of establishing the Lambda Pi chapter at Ole on committees and the executive board, with Taylor Miss. Taylor asked Arden if she should look into the serving as Panhellenic delegate and Arden as vice experience and remembers her answer: "Yes, 1,000%." president recruitment. Each woman individually set her mind on being president of her chapter - and then Arden began nudging Taylor toward Alpha Chi Omega found out the same was true for her best friend! Taylor and letting the establishment team know about her, remembers texting Arden about how nervous she was though she also knew her best friend had to make before her speech to the chapter about why she should her own decision to join. "That was my dream for her be president and getting this response from Arden: because I knew what it would do," Arden says. "I felt like "You're not going to believe this I'm also slated for she could benefit SO much from Greek life and having president." those connections with women who shared her values." Taylor kept Arden updated throughout the Alpha Chi "It was just the craziest mix of emotions," Arden says recruitment process - and Arden even attended one of looking back on the process. "We were like, 'This is the the Lambda Pi chapter's recruitment events - and they best day ever and now I'm terrified." Taylor adds, were both thrilled when Taylor accepted her bid as a "We're both like, 'What if neither of us gets it or one sophomore during Lambda Pi's 2022 establishment! does and the other doesn't?" Joining Greek life is a wonderful opportunity during college - but being a founding member is a once-in-a- lifetime experience. It takes someone who is willing and wanting to leave a mark and help shape the experience for future members. This includes helping establish structures, traditions and a presence on campus, as well as recruiting future classes to carry on the legacy of the new chapter. While both Taylor and Arden say their chapter sisters and staff consultants were instrumental to their success, having each other was an unexecpted bonus. "You have to lean on other people who have been in your shoes, and Arden is one of the only other people in the country who knows what it's like to be a founding THE LYRE 37 COLLEGIATE CORNER amount that she's put into the Epsilon Upsilon chapter. "I'm just SO passionate about this organization for SO many reasons," she says. "I feel like the amount of dedication and commitment and love and time I gave to Alpha Chi was absolutely unreal, but what I have received back is that much more, through the friendships I've made and mentors I have and things I learned about myself." "My biggest takeaway would be the confidence and strength I got out of this," Taylor says. "I was the most scared, anxious freshman on this college campus. I was texting her [Arden] that I wanted When all was said and done, both Taylor and Arden to transfer or go home. Then I joined the chapter, and were elected presidents of their chapters for the 2024 now I truly have the mentality of'I can move anywhere, school year. And they still sometimes can't believe it. do anything, work anywhere." Arden says, "This is absolutely crazy. The odds of this happening are just unreal." And in the spirit of true sisterhood and lifelong friendship, Arden is always cheering Taylor on. "That's Just like when they were navigating the founding the thing that makes me SO happy about all this it's member experience, the women have leaned on each really full circle of all the things you could want for other for support and idea-sharing in the chapter your best friend." president role. Arden explains, "Sometimes I think that as president, we have SO many questions in our mind of what the best way to do something is. And we bounce ideas like that off of each other and share what works. Our individual chapters are SO different, even though they're both in similar phases of establishment, SO it's also interesting to hear different things that work for different people." As many leaders have felt and as Taylor's predecessor shared during officer transitions, it can feel lonely at the top - SO Taylor is grateful to "have that support system just an hour and a half down the road or when we're home for break, less than five minutes away." As they prepared to wrap up their terms, they shared a few things they are walking away from their collegiate experience with. For Arden, it's the love she's given and received from Alpha Chi Omega - knowing she's gained tenfold the 38 ALPHA CHI OMEGA WHO DO YOU KNOW? Our members are the best resource for helping recruit real, strong women into the Alpha Chi Omega sisterhood. If you know a remarkable young woman who plans to participate in recruitment on her campus, our online recommendation form is the best way to let the chapter know! MY.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/RECOMMEND CAREER OUTLOOK Collaboration in the Classroom BY EMMA WILLE, MARKETING AND in ways that I think would work best for the students in COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST front of me" she says. Gina gets creative when it comes to working with her students; she actively listens to F or more than a decade of our lives, we spend what they need and tailors each lesson to meet them countless hours in classrooms, learning from where they are. This collaboration gives her students teachers who leave lasting impressions on the opportunity to learn in new and exciting ways! In us. Whether it's unlocking our passions, creating an addition to her day-to-day classroom activities, she has environment for teamwork or simply just being there to brought her coursework to life by taking her students listen, we can think of a teacher who made an impact. to hear oral arguments at the Indiana Court of Appeals For many of the students at New Palestine High School through a program called Appeals on Wheels. in Indiana, that teacher is Gina Iacobucci (Gamma Mu, Ball State University). But Gina's commitment to her students doesn't stop at the end of the school day! Gina leads We the Gina always knew she wanted to study history, SO People, an extracurricular academic team that allows when she started at Ball State University, she chose to students to learn more about the U.S government. double major in history and social studies education, "In this team, students split up into small groups and hoping that a career path would become clear. It wasn't long before her love for teaching clicked, especially as she joined Alpha Chi Omega, where she built some GINA WITH HER 2022-23 TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARDS AT THE SCHOOL AND DISTRICT LEVELS of her favorite memories. Gina credits her sorority experience with helping her develop the confidence and communication skills she would later use in the classroom. "The recruitment process really helped me grow my public speaking skills, network with others and feel comfortable starting conversations with just about anyone," she says. Finally, her career choice became clearer than ever when she began student teaching. "I myself really loved learning, and I want my students to love learning," she says. After graduation in 2016, Gina started teaching U.S. history and government at New Palestine High School. Immediately she jumped in and worked hands-on with her students, whether through debating arguments for a mock trial or creating a puzzle game to teach gerrymandering. "Every day is different, and my school district gives me a lot of freedom to present materials 40 ALPHA CHI OMEGA GINA IACOBUCCI analyze constitutional issues by applying constitutional For Gina, teaching is the perfect blend of her love principles, lessons learned from history and political for history and her desire to collaborate with others. philosophy. Through the course of the semester, "Being a teacher is the greatest job," she says. "I get to they write papers that they present to judges at the talk about things I enjoy all day, with 17- and 18-year- competition. After listening to the papers, the judges olds who are interested, engaging and funny." Last year, test their knowledge and opinions," she says. Leading Gina's hard work was rewarded when she was named this group takes a lot of time, with competition prep Teacher of the Year for her building and district, and and practices outside of school hours; however, it is all one of the top ten finalists for Indiana 2024 Teacher of worth it for Gina since she herself benefited from the the Year. Gina truly exemplifies taking collaboration program when she was in high school. and education to new heights! Now in her seventh year working with We the Going forward, Gina can't wait to keep inspiring People, she says students gain a wide range of skills. others and continue to put what she learned from her "Every year, students come in with little knowledge Alpha Chi experience into practice. "When I think about the U.S. government, but they leave with deep of Alpha Chi Omega, I think of real, strong women - understanding of the issues, political efficacy and hope women who are confident, driven and bold. These are for the future, not to mention skills to help them in characteristics I strive for, and ones I hope my daughter their futures like research and writing ability, public will emulate someday as well. I look to these qualities in speaking, open mindedness and teamwork," she says. my professional life as I've worked [toward] excellence By working together, Gina helps her students find new in education." opportunities and prepares them for the future. THE LYRE 41 CAREER OUTLOOK The Power of the Alpha Chi Network BY ARIANNA BRADLEY (KAPPA XI, UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA), DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME ENGAGEMENT ou've heard the stats. We know the data. Y Mentorship is essential for career growth, and its importance cannot be overstated. Yet nearly la FEMME est two-thirds of women report not having a mentor. le FUTUR KAYLEY WACHTER BRIANNA THOMPSON With thousands of sisters sharing a commitment to empowering women, there is no reason why every Alpha Chi shouldn't have a mentor! No matter strong women, provides opportunities for collegiate where you may be in your career or stage of life, and alumnae members to make connections through having support from a trusted mentor for advice and seeking support, coaching and guidance in their careers. accountability can be a gamechanger when working Research has found that 87% of mentors and mentees toward personal and professional goals. feel empowered by their mentoring relationships and have developed greater confidence. But don't take our That's where Women & Wisdom comes in! Women & word (or the data's) for it - let some of our sisters tell Wisdom, Alpha Chi Omega's online network of real, you how the powerful Alpha Chi network has changed their trajectory. WOMEN & WISDOM OFFERS Kayley Wachter, a junior from our Alpha Pi (University of North Dakota) chapter, was recently matched with Mentor programs a mentor through Women & Wisdom. "I decided why Networking connections not try it? I wanted to hear a perspective from a Virtual events female who has been in the business industry and hear Interest groups what it's like for them and the challenges that they face." Job board Business directory To no one's surprise, our sisters are smart and ambitious, which is exactly why Kayley's first impression WHAT HELP CAN YOU FIND OR OFFER? of her mentor was, "Wow she's educated, and she knows her stuff." Kayley met with her mentor alongside Professional connections another mentee. "She talked to both of us collegians Meeting virtually or in person about what we want to do in the future and gave us Answers to industry-specific questions tips. She introduced new books for us to read and some Informational interviews very important life lessons." Resume reviews Career advice Brianna Thompson (Zeta Upsilon, Case Western And more! Reserve University) was on the job hunt when she was matched with a mentor through Women & Wisdom. JANUARY IS MENTORING MONTH! "It's difficult to find a mentor when you are not already in a company that has an ceee Sign up for New Year initiative set up for that." Brianna was Connections by January 2 looking for a way to connect with a more to be matched with experienced alumna, and Alpha Chi gave a sister for a virtual her just that! "She taught me to be more meeting. Scan the QR resourceful, more bold and to reach back into code to access the form! my own network to ask for support without fear Join us January 30 on or embarrassment." Zoom for a networking event to learn outreach tips and meet new sisters. RSVP for The best part about Women & Wisdom is that all of the the event at womenandwisdom.org sisters on the network want to support each other. As Brianna shares, "We all joined Alpha Chi likely because we align with the values of the organization and we communicate. It's amazing to see that she still cares believe in creating a real, strong community of women and that she is still here to help me when needed." on whom we can rely for support and encouragement. At the end of the day, people really do want to help one Brianna recommends sisters take advantage of the one- another." to-one and small group mentoring programs, webinars and resources Women & Wisdom provides. "I love Kayley adds, "I wish collegians knew that it's not scary hearing new perspectives and stories, and if I can help or hard. I feel like a lot of collegians can be nervous to anyone, no matter where they are, that's important to talk to alumnae when in reality, alumnae want to help me. All of the things I learned through my mentor and us and give back to Alpha Chi Omega." my peers helped me find my current job and do my best work, SO I'm very grateful!" What makes connecting with a sister SO special? "Being able to connect with a more experienced sister, Kayley adds, "Women and Wisdom is an amazing or providing support to a more inexperienced sister, program that I hope to give back to one day because really solidifies our bonds and our community as a it helped me meet new people and network, and my whole," says Brianna. "You can learn a lot across the mentor gave me amazing professional lessons and conversations, and at the end of the day, we joined AXO advice. Hearing advice from women who were once to be part of something bigger, and there's a different in my shoes opened my eyes. It's amazing to see the type of mentoring experience to be had when you share support I have from real, strong women all across the that type of connection." country." Kayley continues to stay in touch with her mentor Ready to start your mentoringjourney? Sign up today at today. "I do think the big thing for me is how we still womenandwisdom.org. "[My mentor] taught me to be more resourceful, more bold and to reach back into my own network to ask for support without fear or embarrassment." THE LYRE 43 LIFE A Life-Saving Connection BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, When Laurel and Jen moved to Philadelphia from their BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND home in California for Jen's first double lung transplant, COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Laurel reunited with several of her Epsilon Rho chapter sisters for the first time in decades. As Laurel shared the O n August 17, 2024 a helicopter touched down medical journey with sisters in person and online, she at NYU Langone Health in New York City says the bond of Alpha Chi Omega was easy to pick back carrying donated lungs. The story of who up. "They were SO concerned and supportive," she says those lungs were going to and how they arrived is one of of the Alpha Chi Omegas who reached out. "If it hadn't strength, hope and the power of connection. been for Jen's COTA fundraising campaign, the awareness of Jen's declining health, the dire need for a transplant Jennifer Hart Dunlea was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis and being in a New York hospital near her doctors would (CF) at age 2. For two decades, she and her mother Laurel never have happened." Wyner Dunlea (Epsilon Rho, University of Delaware) have fought for a better life for Jen. CF is a progressive One of those Epsilon Rho sisters was Bridgit Riley, genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas and who had been following the COTA updates. In August, other organs. There is no cure, and while medications Bridgit's son Luke received a message about the passing have helped a small number of those with the disease, of one of his FBI colleagues. That family was looking to many others with different mutations of CF don't have donate their loved one's organs to a member of the FBI that option. Other treatments have helped control Jen's family - including the lungs. By a stroke of luck, Luke saw symptoms, but ultimately, a lung transplant was her only the message before he went off grid and shared it with his hope. extended family to see if they knew someone in need of organ donation. Jen received her first transplant in 2015, but her body began to reject the donated lungs after five years, and Bridgit immediately forwarded Laurel the message. "I she went back on the transplant list. All they could do was anxious," Bridgit says. "I didn't know if it was 'false was wait for another set of lungs. "You have that sweet hope' and not much about the transplant process but felt spot, that window where you've got to be sick enough a sense of urgency." When Laurel called back, she told to get on the list, but then you have to be well enough Bridgit, "There is no such thing as false hope." and strong enough to survive an organ transplant surgery, SO it's a catch-22," Laurel explains. "That's why That set a flurry of activity into motion - and quickly, as it's SO important that everybody is signed up to be organ there is a very small window of time for organ donation. donors." Looping in Jen's Laurel explains that she had long kept Jen's medical medical team. journey private, but with mounting bills, she and Jen Confirming finally decided to share the story via the Children's Organ that blood Transplant Association (COTA). They hoped to raise both type and awareness and funds SO that Jen could be close to her body size doctors at NYU before and after transplant surgery for a were a match. successful recovery. Little did they know that when Laurel Reaching out shared out the updates, she was rebuilding a connection to Jen's step- that would lead to a rare direct organ donation. uncle, a former BRIDGIT AND LAUREL CIRCA 1983 44 ALPHA CHI OMEGA to receive a transplant - making this direct donation all the more powerful. Without these lungs and Bridgit's message, Laurel says, "I'm sure Jen would still be waiting." Laurel and Jen have fundraised and advocated for organ donation, including being the faces of the 2016 Mother's Day spring campaign with the Gift of Life Donor Program Foundation in Philadelphia, and plan to continue to do SO after Jen recovers. Next steps for Jen are in-patient rehab, followed by outpatient treatment. "Jen JEN AND LAUREL ON THE DAY OF HER still needs to raise funds to be near her transplant team DISCHARGE IN OCTOBER 2024 for a successful recovery," Laurel adds. FBI employee, to connect with the representative for the "Some people say to me, 'I don't know how you do it,' donor family. and I say, 'Because you have to.'I never gave it another thought. There's nothing more important to me in this So many things had to align - and they did. Just a day world," Laurel says. "Even though we've gone through this after Bridgit reached out, Jen and Laurel received the life- journey, I feel blessed. She's my best friend, and I adore changing news: Jen was a match, and the family agreed her. I would have, of course, preferred Jen to have a life to the donation. Jen was wheeled into an operating room without CF, but those were the cards we were dealt." in the late afternoon, and a helicopter delivered the lungs 3 hours later. After a 10-hour surgery, the transplant Laurel is also grateful that she's been able to reconnect was complete, and Jen's body could begin the process of with Bridgit and other Alpha Chi Omegas. "We've just accepting the lungs and healing. As Laurel says of the been in our own little world, especially since COVID with whirlwind two days, "It was just meant to happen." Jen being immunosuppressed in rejection. We had been in isolation for the last four years. It's just been nice, all Laurel kept Bridgit updated throughout the process. "This the support and the well wishes and love that I'm feeling was an emotional roller coaster I was happy to be on," from all our friends all over the country." Bridgit says. "I was excited and relieved for Jen, thankful that I was put in a position to help be a conduit with Bridgit has also been reminded of the powerful Alpha Chi my son Luke in her transplant process, and also grateful Omega bond, sharing, "I would have done this for anyone to the family who were grieving their loss but made the if I had known their story or need, but the Alpha Chi decision to donate the organs, Jen's uncle for his service Omega connection made this possible, and the ripple and all the other people involved in her care." effect has strengthened even more bonds with a larger group of sisters looking out and supporting each other." Laurel echoes that gratefulness, particularly for the donor family. "To have someone who is going through such Bridget volunteers as a recruitment information advisor heart-wrenching times but wants to make sure that the for the Theta Tau (Rutgers University) chapter and shared organs go to somebody else SO that they can get this gift the story with some of the current collegiate members. of life - it's amazing to have people like that." "They are all pulling for Jen as part of the broader Alpha Chi Omega family. They can see the connection to According to the U.S. government's organ donor statistics, Alpha Chi and the bond that continues beyond college." there are more than 103,000 people on the national transplant waiting list; another person is added every 8 You can find out more about Fen's story, organ donation and minutes. Laurel points out that Jen's "number" on the the family's fundraiser on the Children's Organ Transplant list may have not come up when she was healthy enough Association website at https://cota.org/cotaforjenslungs/ THE LYRE 45 LIFE Alpha Chis Experience the Olympics BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, seeing SO many French people come together and show BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND pride for our country and athletes, and it was amazing COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER to meet SO many visitors from all over the world." T his summer, the world fixed its attention Emily Spezzatti (Gamma Tau, Oklahoma City on Paris, France as the 2024 Olympics and University) also lives in France. This past spring, she Paralympics took place. While millions of served as a small group leader for Alpha Chi Omega's Americans tuned in on TV or streaming services, some Spring Small Groups, hosted by the Women & Wisdom Alpha Chi Omegas got to see the action unfold in program. While she cherished the virtual connections person. As the Games connected SO many around the she made during the experience, the Olympics allowed world, SO too did it for our sisters - in different ways! Emily to make a deeper connection with one of her small group members, Lisa Franklin (Gamma Sigma, Flo Robbins (Kappa, University of Wisconsin-Madison) University of Rhode Island), in person! grew up in France but came to the United States for college. She explains that she chose an American FLO AT THE WOMEN'S SOCCER FINAL university for her undergraduate experience for a OF THE UNITED STATES VS. BRAZIL few reasons: her parents are American, an American school would allow her to study both German and environmental studies, and she wanted "the full 'American experience,' which to me included school spirit, Greek life and great academics." Flo was back home in France this summer and was able to see several Olympic events in person! She and her family took in the Opening Ceremonies and dozens of sporting events throughout the Games. Flo says, "Being able to attend various gymnastics events was the highlight of my summer because I have been watching the Games on TV since I was a kid. I loved seeing Simone Biles and the other women of Team USA, as well as witnessing Kaylia Nemour win her gold medal on bars for Algeria." While Flo says she and her friends were apprehensive about Paris hosting the Olympics and causing massive crowds and expenses, the reality was much more positive. "The city was cleaner than usual, the energy was amazing, the tourists were respectful and my day- to-day life did not change much at all," she says. "I loved 46 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AS SHARED ON SOCIAL Our Lambda Pi chapter at the University of Mississippi shared this on Instagram from member Kaitlyn Frisk: Emily explains, "Lisa told me that she and her family LISA (LEFT) would be coming to Paris for the Olympics and asked AND EMILY OUT TO LUNCH if we could meet. She and her husband, Rick, met my IN PARIS husband, Antoine, and me for lunch at one of our WITH THEIR favorite restaurants, Crêperie le Petit Josselin. We HUSBANDS "This summer I had the once-in-a- discussed our families and careers, shared travel stories lifetime opportunity to not only and more. I was especially thankful to Lisa and Rick for attend the gymnastics Olympic providing an occasion for my husband to practice his trials in Minnesota but also the English. Antoine works in French, and we converse with 2024 Paris Olympics! In June my most of our friends in French. Though we try to speak family and I flew to Minneapolis, mostly English at home, it's always helpful when he gets Minnesota and watched both the the chance to practice with others." men and women's gymnastics trials (and of course I had The lunch date happened on a special day for Lisa - her to get a picture with the wedding anniversary. Lisa adds, "Meeting Emily and Pommel Horse King {Stephen Antoine and sharing our stories was a great way to Nedoroscik] himself). celebrate our anniversary in the city of love." In July we were off to Paris! The value of connection is something that is shared We watched Simone and Suni by both the Games and Alpha Chi Omega, and it was win their gold and bronze medals on full display this summer. "The alumnae network in the women's all-around final, continues to be the best resource that Alpha Chi has I've truly never felt more patriotic provided me - it truly is the gift that keeps on giving," then when the national anthem Emily says. "I'll always remember meeting Lisa in Paris played and two American flags and look forward to keeping in touch!" were being raised to the top of the stadium." MAKING A DIFFERENCE Making an Impact on Families, Students and Soldiers BY EMILY FLOYD (THETA UPSILON, UNIVERSITY OF of belonging and service to others in both groups; both SOUTH CAROLINA), EVENTS MANAGER have shared values and goals SO that you can connect with others for a similar purpose. You lean on one n the New York Times "Connections" game, players another and help each other through whatever journeys I must find four words in a set of 16 that are similar in you're experiencing. category - sports teams, ZOO animals, serving utensils. But what about real-life connections between the words In 2002, Beth graduated from medical school and began "Redhawk," "Greek Life," "Neonatal" and "U.S. Army?" her residency with the National Capital Consortium, working at the National Naval Medical Center and Those four words are just a few used to describe Dr. Walter Reed Army Medical Center. She and her husband Beth Flanigan (Delta Lambda, Ripon College). A proud also decided to expand their family and welcomed two member of the Ripon Redhawk community, Beth felt children. It was her own parenting journey that inspired right at home when she entered Ripon's campus her Beth to pursue neonatology and pediatrics. freshman year of college. She was familiar with the Greek life system, as her mother was a sorority woman, "We discovered at 2 months old my son had a very and her grandmother and great aunt joined Alpha Chi serious heart condition that was not detected during Omega at Washington University in St. Louis. Beth says pregnancy. It was a very emotional and scary time joining Alpha Chi and having that special connection for our family, and we were unsure of the outcome at with her grandmother strengthened the shared times. Watching the sacrifices the doctors and medical memories between generations. staff made to help my family during this unprecedented time was SO important to me," she says. "I had the dean After graduating from Ripon College with a pre-med of students and numerous professors visit our family, degree, Beth received her master's degree in public health and I felt the love and desire to help my family during from Tulane University School of Public Health and this dark time. Luckily, we had a great team of doctors Tropical Medicine and spent time in Guatemala before and the best-case scenario, and our son survived. After, making her way to the Washington, D.C. area. There, she I knew I wanted to make a difference for a family in a enrolled in Uniformed Services University, where she similar situation like the medical professionals made a completed medical school while serving on active duty difference in my life." in the military. "There was a special connection between myself and the other members of my graduating class," Now, Beth is the chief of clinical operations at Brigham she explains. "20% of USU students were women, SO it and Women's Hospital in Boston, as well as an assistant was comforting to have that connection in what was a professor at Harvard Medical School. Her days are never male-dominated field at the time." the same - she is a practicing neonatologist and works with patients to deliver babies under her care. Although medical residency and Greek life may not sound like they have a ton in common, Beth notes that As a chief in the pediatrics department, Beth oversees both programs are bigger than yourself. There's a sense clinical care, policies and procedures to ensure the 48 ALPHA CHI OMEGA DR. BETH FLANIGAN BETH SERVED 18 YEARS OF ACTIVE DUTY IN THE U.S. ARMY hospital is up to date in and adhering to evidence- Flanigan and her team. The delivery was successful, based practices. She educates her faculty and staff and and the mom took home a beautiful baby at the end of collaborates with multiple disciplines in the hospital her stay. Beth says, "It feels extra special to spend those to work together for the same goal. The hospital is also moments with these families, and seeing them go home a teaching hospital, SO she works with residents and is such a great feeling." medical students on pediatric and neonatal care. While her days are long and sometimes challenging, There are many facets to her career, but Beth says Beth finds reasons to smile and leans on her the part she is most proud of is knowing that she is colleagues. She enjoys teaching and watching the making the same difference for a family that someone medical students respond to childbirth and what the made for hers all those years ago. In times of turmoil body experiences. She says there is no better feeling and heaviness, she wants to bring light and support. A than applying her skills and seeing a newborn turn a few years ago, Beth met a woman in premature labor corner in a positive light. For those who might aspire whose baby unfortunately did not survive. Several years to a similar career, Beth has these words of advice: later, Beth was called to a room for a delivery and saw "Don't give up. The road might not be straightforward; the same mother. Beth recalls the patient was calm it might be curvy, have obstacles, but if it's your and measured as she said, "I know I'm going to be OK passion, work for it and keep going. There might be a because Dr. Flanigan is here." What could have been bad moment, day, period of time, but keep going for feelings of trauma and fear from previous experiences what you want and say 'yes' to opportunities that you gave way to relief in the trust the patient had in Dr. might not have thought otherwise." THE LYRE 49 is REAL. STRONG. WOMAN. Opera, Representation and Education BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER hen Melody Chang (Omega, Washington State W University) decided to study opera in college, she pursued more than just opportunities to share her mezzo-soprano voice on stage. She also invested time in learning all other aspects of putting on a show - stage management, costumes, administration and more. Today, Melody combines her well-rounded understanding of opera with her belief in the power of education and her commitment to advocacy. As the executive director of the Asian Opera Alliance, she is leading the charge to increase Asian representation in opera and address stereotypes of roles and shows. In that capacity and several other professional and volunteer roles, Melody is putting action behind her conviction that education can change the world. 50 ALPHA CHI OMEGA X MELODY PERFORMING IN A BIG BAND CHRISTMAS WITH THE SPOKANE VALLEY SUMMER THEATRE IN 2023; PHOTO BY DYLAN K. JOHNSON THE ART OF OPERA Today, Melody is a leader in the arts world, but she would never have guessed that's where her path would take her. Raised by an engineer and an accountant, Melody was a competitive ice skater and soccer player as a child, and while she learned to play an instrument in fourth grade, she says her family wasn't musically inclined. "I was supposed to be the next engineer. I had gone to robotics camp growing up and gone to my dad's office playing around with the hardware," she says. Melody hadn't done much singing until college, when she joined the chorus for an opera. "I called him after my first semester and said, 'Dad, I'm switching my major to opera." Her parents were surprised but supportive. Melody was all in, finding that the art was a new challenge in which she thrived. She says the inspiration for her passion was "the richness of everything that goes into an opera, how textured and layered things are. And then there's the whole aspect of singing un-mic'd over an orchestra." MELODY IN THE ROLE OF BLOODY MARY IN SOUTH PACI WITH THE SPOKANE VALLEY SUMMER THEATRE IN 2024; In opera, singers and orchestras perform for the entire PHOTO BY DYLAN K. JOHNSON length of the show. Melody explains that opera singers must be in incredible shape to make their voices college for the Best of Broadway series in their nation heard over instruments. She says, "All of that together tours in Spokane, Washington. Melody loves the fascinated me, and I found that I loved singing on teamwork aspect of theater, whether she's performing stage - not necessarily as the star, but I loved just being or behind the scenes. She explains that the work isn't around that." glamorous, but it's worth it: "People see all the galas a the pictures, but really, it all runs on a couple of very For those Alpha Chi Omegas in similar college overcaffeinated people taking naps in the corner on t programs, Melody shares this advice: "Learn everything couches." you can. Take every opportunity. Make sure to protect your time and take care of yourself - but say 'yes' to Following that first job were positions at various arts helping with lighting design. Say 'yes' to helping unload and media organizations, primarily in marketing. things. You're never too big to help with the small tasks. However, when COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the arts The more you do that, the more you will learn about industry, Melody had to get creative. At her marketing the ins and outs of this industry." job with Inland Northwest Opera, she brought out all her skills - including her penchant for "taking things It's what Melody did during college. Though she loved apart and putting them back together" that started in performing, she knew she didn't want to sing as a full- childhood - to build a traveling opera truck! Melody time career, SO she threw herself into studying every had taken up a hobby of rebuilding cars during the aspect of putting an opera together. She brought those pandemic, SO when her boss came to her with the idea skills to her professional life, working right out of to take opera on the road, she got to work. 52 ALPHA CHI OMEGA like Puccini's Madama Butterfly, to accurately and respectfully portray Asian characters instead of falling into long-performed stereotypes. "Our idea is we want to call in, not call out," she says. Melody values the collaboration between the Asian Opera Alliance and opera companies that have invited her to share resources and expertise. She advises on all parts of the production, from performers to costume design to donor engagement, always keeping in mind the needs of current and future Asian opera professionals and the industry as a whole. "No detail is too small when it comes to making sure artists feel safe." For example, for a recent run of Madama Butterfly that Melody was consulting on, it was the first time that the actress playing the title role (who had played it countless times before) had kimono padding under her kimono costume, making it more authentic. Choreography for the chorus members also avoided unnecessary shuffling, bowing and giggling that perpetuates stereotypes of Asian women. "It doesn't come from a place of hatred; it comes from "We bought a 16-foot box truck and started redoing years and years of media reinforcing these stereotypical the floor. We tuned up the engine and had a stage images of Asian people," Melody says. "And the fact that created custom for it," Melody explains. "And then we these singers, who have done this all over the world in just set out doing public performances of our education some of the biggest houses, that this is the first time programs and recitals." [they are performing in a culturally sensitive version of the show], it makes me sad, but also very happy that It was just the beginning of her creativity. Melody soon we're making the change now." had the chance to bring her toolbox of skills to another organization, setting her on a path to make change. Melody brought this experience to her recent performance in the role of Bloody Mary, a Tonkinese ADVOCATING FOR vendor in Rogers and Hammerstein's South Pacific, with the Spokane Valley Summer Theatre (SVST). REPRESENTATION Melody works as the marketing and communications director for SVST and the Idaho Central Spokane Valley In May 2021, a group of Asian-identified opera Performing Arts Center (ICSVPAC) that it is building, professionals came together to form the Asian and she performs with the company when she can. Opera Alliance. The Asian Opera Alliance exists "to uplift one another and to advocate for greater Asian "It wasn't a role I ever wanted to play because it was representation in opera, while striving for broader very stereotypical, but we did dramaturgical work and equity." Melody serves as the organization's executive additional research on how to portray her in a non- director and works hand in hand with opera companies racist manner," Melody says. "We educated the cast on to provide consultation on shows, particularly those where in the South Pacific this would have taken place THE LYRE 53 REAL. STRONG. WOMAN. and actual cultural customs that would have been important to her. I just loved that and really getting to sink my teeth into her." The Asian Opera Alliance also offers master classes and mentorship to its members, hosts resources and a database of Asian opera professionals, and publishes data on the demographics of casting in the major opera companies. Melody explains, "In this industry, it's really tough to put yourself out there. You are your own instrument. So it's really important to see ourselves reflected, and it's really important for other people to know that Asian opera singers are a big deal. Just the fact that we look different doesn't mean we can't do the job." All of this supports the organization's mission of advocating for representation of Asian-identifying performers in all roles and across industry positions - and in turn, moving the opera industry toward a more inclusive and equitable experience for all. "It's "You're never too MELODY IN THE ROLE OF WANDA IN ESCAPE TO big to help with MARGARITAVILLE WITH THE SPOKANE VALLEY SUMMER THEATRE IN 2023; PHOTO BY DYLAN K. JOHNSON the small tasks. The about how your company as a whole treats artists and more you do that, people, and it's not just Asian people," Moldy says. "We [the Asian Opera Alliance] go from the lens of trying the more you will to make it better for ourselves, but in turn making it better for everyone else." learn about the ins EDUCATION AS THE KEY and outs of this Melody's work underscores one of her core beliefs: the industry." power of education. "I believe education is the solution to all the world's problems," Melody says. She is the former board president of Communities in Schools, an organization 54 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Melody's commitment to increasing access to arts education is also reflected in the scholarship she started in 2021 for first-generation BIPOC music or theater students to purchase materials to pursue their art, such as repertoire books and recital dresses, which are not typically covered by traditional scholarships. When it comes to arts and theater education in particular, Melody says the benefits extend throughout life. Kids get experience accessing and processing through emotions as they act out a character. "I feel it's a little practice run for when you have to work through it yourself. It gives you emotional intelligence," Melody says. "You live your whole life as yourself. But in theater, even if you're just in the chorus, even if you're a tree, at least you get to play a tree, and you understand from a tree's point of view." And an arts education is not just for those with aspirations to perform as a career. Melody says that although she's seen the SVST act as a "springboard for young arts to really hone their craft and get where they want to go in this industry not all of those kids are going to go on to be on Broadway. But they're going to be given skills like public speaking." An introvert herself, Melody gained similar skills from her theater work - and from Alpha Chi Omega! She says her ability to keep a conversation going, to be charismatic and to present herself all came from dedicated to providing support to students to empower sorority recruitment. them to stay in school. She led the nonprofit after the COVID-19 pandemic, helping students get access to From helping her feel less alone on campus to making community resources SO they wouldn't fall behind lifelong friends and finding community in alumna life, academically. Access to and equity in education are Alpha Chi Omega has provided Melody a network of cornerstones of what she does. support. "The alumnae group puts together a group of sisters to come see my shows, everything I'm in. The In her current professional roles with the SVST and ongoing support is really lifelong." ICSVPAC, Melody is proud of her work to help close the gap between local theater and national tours. The As an advocate, performer, theater professional and plan is for the performing arts center to have a year- more, Melody is making change in the opera and round conservatory to provide education and training. theater industries - and she's excited to see where she "They are really going to change a lot of lives with this goes from here. "It's the little things, like remembering performing arts center," Melody says. how people respond, remembering how artists feel. No matter what I do, my goal is to make sure artists feel safe," she says. "I'm very optimistic." THE LYRE 55 INDUSTRY INFO Campus Total RFM specialists set total in the following ways: 1. Average or median chapter size 2. Largest chapter size WHAT IT IS 3. Midpoint between median and largest chapter size AND WHY IT MATTERS 4. Largest chapter size plus, up to 20 women BY GINA FOX (IOTA PHI, QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY), When setting campus total, no method is better than DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE GROWTH, AND another. They are all used strategically depending on what KELSEY ATKINSON (BETA LAMBDA, UNIVERSITY OF is determined to be best for the campus community. ARIZONA), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COLLEGIATE GROWTH Chapters should always want to grow and reach campus total, as continued growth is how an organization and T he sorority experience continues to be a critical a Panhellenic community continue to prosper. Striving development opportunity for young women to be at campus total allows chapters to sustain the entering their collegiate years. Membership sorority community, be competitive on campus, have provides lifelong learning, networking and connections. It more people share in the work of the chapter by serving is essential to the sustainment of Alpha Chi Omega that in officer or committee roles, create a larger budget to our organization continues to grow and thrive, and one enhance the chapter experience, continue to afford and of the driving factors of that growth is collegiate chapter maintain a chapter facility (whether that is a house, suite recruitment. Without its members, Alpha Chi Omega or lodge and all that comes along with this) and of course cannot function. share the incredible experience of being in a Panhellenic organization. Whether new members join a chapter through primary recruitment or the continuous open bidding (COB) Being at campus total is important not only for an process, the addition of new Alpha Chi Omegas brings individual chapter but also for the overall health of the innumerable benefits. On any college campus, Alpha Chi Panhellenic community. At some campuses, fewer women Omega is an advocate for growth and strongly believes are going through the primary recruitment process year that to see continued success and prosperity, all chapters over year, which leads to a decrease in total over time. This should have a growth mindset. To better understand how results in challenges in many areas of the country with chapters can contribute to a campus's growth, we first sustaining chapters that have low membership numbers need to understand where opportunities are. and in shrinking Panhellenic communities, which will continue to shrink due to decreases in college enrollment. On every campus where a Panhellenic organization is present, a campus total is set. Total is the allowable When college campuses are noticing a decline in interest chapter size as determined by the National Panhellenic in primary recruitment, NPC has some requirements Conference (NPC), which includes both new and initiated for setting total in the hopes of sustaining Panhellenic members. Total is evaluated every academic term and is set communities: by a group of highly trained NPC volunteers called release figure methodology (RFM) specialists. These volunteers If a campus experiences greater than a 2% decrease work hard to understand the history of a campus and in the open house pool (number of potential new set total at a number that provides the campus with members registered for recruitment) over the the greatest opportunity for growth. Establishing total previous year, total must be set at midpoint or on campus helps all Panhellenic groups take the most higher. Here, the campus is recognizing that interest members possible, ensuring that all chapters in the in recruitment is decreasing, SO to combat this, they community have a healthy number of new members. are making sure total is set higher, which provides 56 ALPHA CHI OMEGA excellent members of Alpha Chi Omega who might not have been interested in the primary recruitment process. This allows for chapters to grow and build their networks in new ways. In the past chapters may have only participated in the COB process if they struggled in primary recruitment. That is no longer the case. Setting total higher on campuses allows for many, if not all, groups to participate in the COB process and bring more members into their organizations. It is an exciting opportunity! When chapters are only a few spaces below total, it doesn't TOP: THETA TAU (RUTGERS UNIVERSITY) MEMBERS AND take many new members to grow back to total. But if NEW MEMBERS CELEBRATED A COB BID DAY THIS FALL. COB is neglected year over year, the gap can grow to an BOTTOM: NEW AND LIFETIME MEMBERS OF SIGMA unattainable number, leading that chapter to eventually (UNIVERSITY OF IOWA) CHAPTER AT FALL BID DAY. fall far below total. an opportunity for some chapters to take members Alpha Chi Omega is leading the way when it comes to after the primary recruitment process. promoting Panhellenic growth. A particular point of pride If a campus only has two Panhellenic chapters, total is that our current National President, Jennifer Daurora must be set at 40 as a minimum. This ensures the (Delta, Allegheny College), previously served as the NPC's chapters have an adequate number of members Total Setting Method Team chair. In this role, she helped to continue chapter operations and support the spearhead the growth of many campuses and college chapters' longevity. Panhellenic Councils. On a campus where there are chapter facilities, if half of the chapters are not consistently able to fill While the process of recruiting new members sometimes their facility, total must be set at largest chapter falls on the shoulders of just a couple chapter members, size. This is strategic because the campus recognizes it shouldn't. All chapter members should strive to the importance of a facility; if total were set too consistently have a growth mindset, not only for their low, chapters may be unable to successfully fill and own chapter but for all Alpha Chi Omega chapters. By maintain their facilities. wanting the organization to grow, they are expanding their own network and promoting the sorority experience As many Panhellenics are making a shift to increase for all Panhellenic organizations nationwide. Members campus total, continuous open bidding has become an should be encouraged to speak positively about their increasingly popular method for supplementing primary chapter experience around campus, wear letters or recruitment. COB allows for chapters that are under merchandise to promote Alpha Chi campus total to recruit to campus total outside of the and utilize the universal Suggest primary recruitment process. Alpha Chi Omega believes a Sister link (available at the QR that COB is a critical part of chapters' ability to grow, code here, on our website and the remain financially healthy and continue to bring great @AlphaChiOmegaHQ Instagram members into Alpha Chi Omega. COB allows all chapters Linktree) to recommend potential on campus to close the gap in terms of membership new members across the country. numbers. Together, Alpha Chi Omegas can continue to seek new In addition to the financial and housing benefits COB heights when it comes to growing our sisterhood and the creates, COB also offers a way for chapters to identify entire Panhellenic community. THE LYRE 57 INDUSTRY INFO Real, Strong Women Don't Haze BY RACHEL HALEY (OMICRON, BAKER UNIVERSITY), ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION T traditions, ceremonies and initiations are common practices closely tied to the fraternity and sorority experience. However, these rituals are not exclusive to just our industry, and neither is the issue of hazing. When any group deviates from making healthy choices rooted in organizational values, it leaves space for unhealthy behaviors - like hazing - to creep in, connection and living our values during National Hazing unintentionally or not. Student organizations, marching Prevention Week. Inspired by our risk management bands, performing troupes, athletic teams and church philosophy, Alpha Chi Omega focused this year's efforts groups have reported incidents of hazing. Hazing is deeply on "making positive choices reflective of dignity and connected to dangerous dynamics of unity, solidarity respect." Chapters showed support by leading programs, or loyalty. Toxic mentalities, attitudes and beliefs for hosting events and facilitating workshops on hazing joining or belonging to a group can begin to form as prevention. The NHPW Challenge annually honors a early as junior high. A national survey, reported in 2000 chapter that shares its commitment to promoting healthy as "Initiation Rites in American High Schools," found sisterhood throughout National Hazing Prevention Week. nearly 47% of students are exposed to some form of Join us in celebrating Delta Lambda (Ripon College), hazing before ever stepping foot on a college or university pictured above, as the NHPW 2024 Winner! campus; of those that did experience hazing, only 1 in 10 labeled it as such. As of the Lyre's print date, there is no federal definition or laws against hazing, but strides continue to be made on While hazing is often viewed as a men's issue, women's Capitol Hill. This September marked a pivotal moment organizations do partake in hazing at similar rates as in the movement against hazing when the Stop Campus men's groups, but in different ways that can have a lasting, Hazing Act received bipartisan support, passing through negative effect on members. Research conducted by The the U.S. House of Representatives. This brings us one step Timothy J. Piazza Center for Fraternity and Sorority closer to creating safer campuses, increasing transparency Research has shown that men's fraternities tend to engage on reporting and expanding protection of student safety. in behavior that is physical and violent, while sororities Alpha Chi Omega stands in support of this legislation use psychological and emotional tactics. Sorority-centric and the advocacy for a comprehensive prevention and hazing activity is typically described as "subtle hazing"; reporting framework that is on the horizon. examples include name calling or silent periods. Subtle hazing can be viewed as less harmful and more acceptable Although National Hazing Prevention Week has ended, behavior, which means it can be less obvious and go we know our work to eliminate hazing continues. We are unreported by those who experience or witness it. proud of each action our sisters take year-round to make an impact on the global issue of hazing. By treating sisters Because hazing is a women's issue, Alpha Chi Omega with the dignity and respect they deserve and putting their is doing its part to put an end to it. Each September, well-being first, we can exemplify the best of what it means we renew our commitment to building healthy to be an Alpha Chi Omega. 58 ALPHA CHI OMEGA ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNAE Court of California, County of Los Angeles and was Sisters at then appointed early to the position, where she's been presiding over criminal court for cases ranging from the Scales murder to drug possession. Danielle explains her current job handling preliminary of Justice hearings. "They look a little bit like a trial, except there's no jury. There are witnesses, and people come to court and testify, and I have to decide more likely than not that this crime occurred, more likely than not this BY LAUREN FILIPPINI (ALPHA CHI, defendant is responsible for it," she says. "If it meets that BUTLER UNIVERSITY), MARKETING AND preponderance of the evidence - 'more likely than not' COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER - then I hold them to answer, and I send them off for another arraignment, and now they're heading toward Ipha Chi Omega sisters are seeking the heights A trial." in every career! For this issue, we connected with four members serving as judges (two in Balancing efficiency, temperament and patience is key to the same county!) about their journeys and advice. Some Danielle's success. She adds, "My job is not to be popular. common threads you'll find: the importance of doing My job is the make the right call and have the courage to the right thing even when it's not popular, the feeling of do the right thing." being "on" 24/7 and the ability to make a difference. Danielle says one of the biggest surprises of being a judge HON. DANIELLE is the isolation she can feel. "If you're not in court, up in R.A. GIBBONS the front on a bench, you're in your chambers away from EPSILON KAPPA (CALIFORNIA STATE people," she says. "So I tend to sit out on the bench at least all morning to show everybody I'm there, I'm ready." UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON) Doing SO also allows her to chat with lawyers and to be JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT OF visible to the public. "There are a lot of eyes on you. We CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES just have to be constantly aware, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, even when not at work." D anielle always knew she was going to be a lawyer "I was a very argumentative child, always had to For those considering law school, Danielle points out its have the last word," she says - but becoming a judge was skyrocketing costs and suggests focusing on improving not on her radar until much later in her career. Over her grades and getting involved in the community and legal years practicing law, with a focus on criminal defense and profession. Doing SO will hopefully unlock financial aid juvenile representation, several judges suggested Danielle and scholarships, like the one Danielle received from the consider a career on the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. bench. She first applied to become a superior court Alpha Chi Omega helped form the woman Danielle commissioner, handling became. "Having that bond in college with other like- cases involving domestic minded, success-oriented, amazing women was a big violence, restraining part." And the sisterhood shows up still today. "You know, orders, civil harassment when you surround yourself with good people, it sticks. and more. Shortly after, You don't have to see each other all the time, you don't she won election to be DANIELLE GIBBONS have to talk to each other all the time. But when you do, Judge a judge of the Superior it's like you never didn't see them." THE LYRE 59 ACCOMPLISHED ALUMNAE HON. SHERRI D. KOCH Sherri is happy to pass on some advice she shares with BETA RHO (AMERICAN UNIVERSITY) the students she interacts with. She suggests aspiring law ADMINISTRATIVE JUDGE FOR THE students consider a gap year, using it to gain perspective and explore their options. Even in law school, she advises DISTRICT COURT OF MARYLAND students to keep their options open - you never know what area of law might inspire you. But most importantly, T throughout her law career, Sherri has been motivated Sherri shares this advice, not only for students, but for all by her desire to make a positive impact. It's what our sisters: "Don't ever let someone tell you that you can't inspired her through 20 years as a prosecutor, a job she do what you want to do." always knew she wanted. "I felt like I could make a lot of decisions, the right decisions, HON. CONNIE R. based on law," she says. And when it was time for QUIÑONES a career change, the same EPSILON PSI (UNIVERSITY OF motivation carried her CALIFORNIA, IRVINE) into serving as a judge. She SUPERVISING JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR recalls, "I started wondering, COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS 'What's my next venture?' And I really wanted to ANGELES continue giving back to the community. It was a A thread throughout Connie's life and career has been natural progression." a commitment to helping others. She is a frequent volunteer at local schools' career days, she moderates a Sherri now serves as a judge for the District Court teen court and she provides mentorship to students, all of Maryland, where she presides over trial court for in service of "demystify[ing] the challenge of becoming a everything from criminal to civil cases, small claims to judge, especially for women traffic violations to landlord/tenant disagreements, and and other marginalized more. "Every day I can have a different docket," she says. people." In college, she She is also the one assigning some of those dockets in her joined Alpha Chi Omega role as administrative judge of the Montgomery County because she wanted to be court. And as if that doesn't keep her busy enough, she part of a group of women serves on a DUI problem-solving court and teaches a class who cared about others, at American University. and she is an active member of the Gamma Pi Gamma American University's Beta Rho chapter is Sherri's chapter (Long Beach, California) of initiation - through the National Alumna Initiate alumnae chapter today. Program! Sherri is a long-time friend of now-National Vice President Leslie Abramsky Block (Theta Tau, Rutgers This passion for helping people underscored the more University), who had asked Sherri to speak to a collegiate than two decades Connie spent as a criminal defense chapter about her work on domestic violence cases. Later, attorney prior to her judgeship, which included more Leslie asked Sherri if she wanted to become an Alpha Chi. than 140 criminal jury trials and thousands of court motions. "Being able to communicate and understand Sherri's undergraduate institution didn't have a Greek people is a great skill that is only learned by being system, and she says the experience "felt like something I amongst them on a regular basis," she says. "My had missed out on." She was thrilled to accept Alpha Chi experience as a trial attorney gave me a great advantage Omega membership in 2012 as an alumna. when I became a judge." 60 ALPHA CHI OMEGA For the past three years, Connie has been the supervising angry at each other, [I hope to] just be able to provide a judge of the South-Central District of the Superior Court well-controlled environment for people to express that. of California, County of Los Angeles. She oversees 30 No one's going to walk out happy because you can't undo judges that preside over criminal, civil, juvenile, family and what's been done, but at least maybe they can feel that dependency cases, keeping the courthouse running. She they were heard and that the process is fair." also still sits on the bench to cover cases for her colleagues and conduct overflow preliminary hearings. It's emotional work, made more SO by the isolation of the role, which is one thing Carolina didn't expect when she "I do not take anything about being a judge for granted, first started as a judge 11 years ago. "It's interesting because and I try to do what is 'right' every day," Connie says. "Not you're around people all day, but the people that you're everyone is happy with my decisions, but I am not here for around all day aren't your peers." She makes it a point to a popularity contest." One of the most rewarding parts of connect with her colleagues and share experiences. being a judge has been knowing she could make someone feel heard on one of the worst days of their life. Carolina has made additional connections - with others and her Peruvian heritage - in Minnesota's Hispanic Bar For those interested in following in her footsteps, Connie Association, which she joined early in her career as a shares a reminder to keep the goal in mind: "Apply for the lawyer. She later served as the board president and now job because you are committed to the community you gives back as a mentor. serve, not just to get the "robe." "I really hated law school," Carolina says, laughing. "I think HON. CAROLINA A. LAMAS everyone assumes that everyone else is just having the ALPHA LAMBDA (UNIVERSITY OF easiest time, and that's not the case. Most people are just getting through it, and being able to listen to law students MINNESOTA) that are going through that and tell them that's where you JUDGE OF HENNEPIN COUNTY DISTRICT were too can be really valuable." COURT, MINNESOTA She encourages those considering a law career to make C arolina never knows exactly how her day will go sure that's really what they want to pursue before when she walks into district court in Hennepin committing to law school, which could include observing County, Minnesota. She knows generally she'll preside court, clerking or volunteering. Students and colleagues over felony cases, which include murder, criminal sexual have reached out throughout Carolina's career asking violence and domestic abuse. "With jury trials, you really to learn more and watch her calendar. "Showing up and don't ever know what's watching can really make all the difference." It was actually going to happen," she Carolina's internship at a domestic violence advocacy explains. "If I'm scheduled center after her freshman year, taking notes for the victim for trial, we'll start picking a advocates, that made her first consider law! jury that morning. But then they'll resolve, and SO maybe Carolina joined Alpha Chi Omega in college and saw her I'm trying another case. experiences with the sorority and the law intersect and But I really like that because come full circle. When she was working as the executive it keeps me interested and director of the Neighborhood Justice Center, she was asked engaged." to give a presentation to a sorority chapter about legal rights. It turned out to be her chapter of Alpha Lambda! As a judge, Carolina says her priority is to "provide a courtroom where people can feel heard." She explains, From experiences to friendships, Carolina is proud to say "Especially in cases that are really heavy, where people are Alpha Chi Omega "has been a really big part of my life." THE LYRE 61 ALUMNA INITIATE SPOTLIGHT The Embrace of Sisterhood BY LAURA KNOBEL (IOTA ALPHA, ALUMNAE touch I became with the world around me [and] INITIATES), ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF LIFETIME how difficult it had become to not only connect with ENGAGEMENT people on a personal level, but on a charitable and entrepreneurial level as well," she says. "That's where n an increasingly connected digital world, Alpha Chi Omega came into the picture." I with people and information at our fingertips, it sometimes conversely feels we are more Our digital world came in handy as Caitlyn scrolled disconnected than ever before. COVID-19 lockdowns TikTok during collegiate recruitment season. Though just a few years ago only exacerbated the sense of she hadn't had access to sorority membership at either isolation many were already feeling. of her undergraduate institutions, Caitlyn says, "I spoke with some friends who went through [recruitment] This contradiction and pervasive feeling of loneliness when they were in school. To hear them discuss their are such universal experiences that in 2023, the U.S. lifelong friendships and the communities they were Department of Health and Human Services published a report titled "Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the CAITLYN KNEAFSEY Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community"; it encouraged Americans to connect deeply and intentionally with others independently and in groups, for the sake of our own health and the longevity of our communities. Caitlyn Kneafsey (Iota Alpha, Alumnae Initiates) felt this acutely. Like many ambitious young women, she spent her first years of adulthood throwing herself fully into her academics and career, earning two undergraduate degrees - first, a Bachelor of Arts degree in visual communications from Savannah College of Art and Design and then a Bachelor of Science degree in fitness administration and management as an out-of-state, online student at the University of Minnesota Crookston while living in New Jersey. "It wasn't until my late 20s that I started to realize how disconnected I became from my own goals and community," she shares. Exacerbating Caitlyn's sense of loneliness, she had moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she currently works as an associate director of advancement and alumni services at Emory University, right before the onset of the pandemic. "I began to realize just how out of 62 ALPHA CHI OMEGA a part of made me curious if there was an option for alongside the spring 2023 new member class at Epsilon adults outside of college." Phi (Georgia Institute of Technology) collegiate chapter, joined Alpha Gamma Alpha and Rho Chi Rho (Alumnae Caitlyn soon found that there are opportunities to join Initiates) alumnae chapters right away, and immediately sororities as an alumna member, including Alpha Chi showed the same commitment to our Fraternity that Omega's National Alumna Initiate Program (NAIP). As she has shown to her career. "I have started to make SO she researched the options available to her for alumna many new friends and even worked on the board of our initiation, Alpha Chi was the clear frontrunner. In her alumnae chapter as secretary," she says. application for membership, she wrote, "Alpha Chi Omega has shown that they accept women in all walks Caitlyn managed to turn a scroll on social media into of life and empower their members to be strong, real-life connections and community when she made resilient and successful. It would be an honor to her dream of sorority membership a reality. Alpha Chi become a member." Omega members responded in kind by welcoming her with open arms. The NAIP panel volunteers were impressed with Caitlyn's application and interview, and quickly "One of my favorite memories is attending my first worked to get her connected to members of the Alpha holiday party, which was really my first event at all!" Gamma Alpha alumnae chapter in Atlanta for a group Caitlyn recalls. "I was SO nervous that I was going to be sponsorship. Each woman who met Caitlyn could tell off to the side or not really fit in, but the women {of she met all of Alpha Chi Omega's National Membership Alpha Gamma Alpha] made me feel right at home. It Standards and would make an exceptional sister. didn't matter if we were different ages or came from different backgrounds. I instantly felt embraced, and I After being approved for membership and participating am SO grateful for that moment of acceptance." in a new member education experience, Caitlyn initiated An Alpha Chi Omega connection is made even more special when sisters find out they have other things in common. It turns out that the Alpha Gamma Alpha SPONSOR A POTENTIAL alumnae chapter president, Dr. Bridget Guernsey ALUMNA MEMBER! Riordan (Gamma Mu, Ball State University), recently retired from Emory University after 30 years of service. Though she and Caitlyn overlapped only briefly as IS THERE A WOMAN colleagues, their new connection as sisters remains. IN YOUR LIFE YOU'D LIKE TO INVITE TO OUR Caitlyn shares that Bridget "always goes out of her way COMMUNITY OF SISTERS? to reach out and check in. It makes you feel like no matter what, someone has your back." SCAN THE QR CODE TO SPONSOR HER FOR It's clear that for Caitlyn, joining Alpha Chi Omega not MEMBERSHIP! only helped her overcome her feelings of disconnection, but also taught her a meaningful lesson about the importance of community. She says, "If the pandemic has shown us anything, it's that while we can overcome an isolating, lonely world, we shouldn't have to." THE LYRE 63 THEN AND NOW The Early Years Chapter and National Leadership BY SALLY CUTLER (ALPHA CHI, BUTLER UNIVERSITY), HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST AT THE COLLEGIATE between conventions." This seems to Have you ever thought CHAPTER LEVEL be a very formal way of saying that the about what Alpha Chi Fraternity's growth necessitated a more Omega was doing 10, 20, While we know that Founder Estelle formalized national officer structure! 50 years ago? How have Leonard was elected as the first chapter things changed for our president, there is little information The Grand Council was originally members and organization? available about other early chapter composed of five members elected by How have they stayed the leadership positions. Alpha (DePauw the Grand Chapter (now known as same? Taken from previous University) chapter minutes from 1886 the national convention delegates), Lyre magazines, the "Then show, however, that important items including the grand president, vice and Now" series offers a found their way onto the agenda - president, secretary, treasurer and glimpse into what life was adopting a constitution and bylaws, editor of The Lyre. The positions of like for Alpha Chi Omegas setting expectations for attendance historian and inspector were soon throughout history. at meetings, accepting Fraternity added. This history book also states, songs and assimilating new members. "Aside from performing the duties At both the local This small but growing membership naturally incumbent upon officers collegiate and national was laying the foundation for the of their respective titles, the Grand levels, Alpha Chi Omega's Fraternity's future. Officers are constantly occupied with leadership structure and a vast amount of committee work of roles have grown and Just a few years later, in January 1891, various descriptions." It sounds like evolved along with the minutes from the Alpha chapter the Grand Council members had Fraternity as a whole. reference the election of chapter plenty of responsibilities to attend What worked in the officers, including president, vice to and were very hands-on in their organization's earliest president, corresponding secretary, leadership! days is clearly not the treasurer, chaplain, house stewardess, same as what Alpha Chi Panhellenic representative and house This example of Grand Council Omega and our members committee members. business from 1911 shows how need today - and SO involved our early we developed. There's AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL leaders were with chapter no doubt, though, that business at the local strong leadership and a According to the first Alpha Chi Omega level: "Recommendation spirit of collaboration history, published in 1911, the Grand that Kappa [University of have sustained Alpha Chi Council was created in 1898 "to be Wisconsin] grant more Omega for nearly 140 the balance in the internal fraternity authority to their chaperone, years and will continue mechanism which has maintained a that they be reprimanded for to do SO for many years true adjustment in fraternity policies their discrepancies in reports to come! and the countless matters which must and that they bind their be dealt with in the two-year intervals LYRE files at once." 64 ALPHA CHI OMEGA Today AT THE COLLEGIATE AT THE day-to-day chapter operations guided CHAPTER LEVEL NATIONAL LEVEL by a strong base of local and regional volunteers with staff support. Today, our collegiate chapter officer Alpha Chi Omega is now led by structure is much broader and the six members of the National Today's National Council members reflective of the complexity of the Council - the National President are initiates of chapters across the collegiate experience. Chapters are led and five vice presidents. These country and bring their own unique by an executive board that includes visionary leaders are elected for backgrounds and experiences to the chapter president and 14 other two-year terms by the convention their roles on the National Council. officers that manage distinct areas delegates and direct the Fraternity, The leadership provided by the of chapter operations, each vitally carefully considering Alpha Chi National Council, alongside the important to our undergraduate Omega's past while moving the Foundation Board of Trustees and members' Alpha Chi Omega organization forward through the National Housing Corporation experience, including: the creation and direction of the Board of Directors (who are strategic plan. Operating under a recruiting for candidates now - see Chapter relations and standards governance model, today's National page 68!), as well as the collaborative Finance Council members are responsible work of all our volunteers, ensures Risk management for the duty of care, duty of loyalty that Alpha Chi Omega continues Ritual and fraternity and fiduciary responsibility. Not to provide a relevant, meaningful appreciation surprisingly, their roles have experience to prospective and Recruitment expanded to focus on matters of lifetime members. New member education overall impact to the Fraternity, with Public relations and marketing Membership programming THE 2024 EPSILON PHI (GEORGIA Diversity, equity and inclusion INSTITUTE OF Panhellenic relations TECHNOLOGY) Intellectual development EXECUTIVE BOARD Facility operations Philanthropy Recruitment information EARLY LEADERS OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA, WHO SERVED AT VARIOUS TIMES BETWEEN 1894- 1908; PHOTO FROM THE 1885- THE 2024-26 1916 HISTORY NATIONAL BOOK COUNCIL OF ALPHA CHI OMEGA VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Lizabeth (Liz) Smith A lpha Chi Omega volunteers serve in many WHAT IS YOUR different capacities, all of which make a FAVORITE PART? difference in the lives of our sisters nationwide. Read about Liz Smith (Pi, University of California, My favorite part is Berkeley), a collegiate advisor with the Pi chapter and a working directly National Panhellenic Conference RFM specialist. with young collegiate leaders. Year after year, LIZ SMITH WHAT DOES ALPHA CHI MEAN TO YOU? I get to watch them grow into their roles, figure out solutions to tough Alpha Chi captured my heart from the first day of issues and drive success for the chapter. I appreciate recruitment in 1983 and has remained there ever since. being challenged by the new thinking they bring, Joining Alpha Chi Omega put me on a journey that not the new approaches to old and new problems they only fulfilled my desire for meaningful friendships and undertake. To get to play a part in their development leadership opportunities but also allowed me to grow and provide vital support that helps them stay resilient personally, academically and socially. Today, Alpha Chi through the long process of planning, training and means more than what it has done for me and what it execution is one of the great joys in my life. has brought to my life. It means everything it has done for the women I have had the pleasure to mentor and WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO AN advise over decades. ALUMNA WHO IS READY TO VOLUNTEER FOR THE FIRST TIME? HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED AS AN ALPHA CHI OMEGA VOLUNTEER? I would say, "Dive in!" Volunteering with Alpha Chi is SO rewarding. Think about what you are passionate The beloved Jo Sicking Hurley (Phi '57) was my chapter about, how much time you have, how you'd like to make advisor when I was president of Pi in 1986. Barbara an impact, and if you'd like to work with collegians or Cattolica (Pi '67) was retiring as Pi's longstanding alumnae. You can choose a role that best suits you to start. recruitment advisor two years after I graduated; she was a powerhouse, and every recruitment team felt lucky WHY SHOULD ALUMNAE BECOME to have her in their corner. I jumped at the chance to VOLUNTEERS FOR ALPHA CHI OMEGA? be the advisor that those advisors had been to me, to be a trusted resource, a mentor, a champion for young Alpha Chi Omega made my collegiate experience at women. And I have enjoyed doing just that for decades. UC Berkeley SO much richer, SO much more fulfilling. Becoming an alumna volunteer has continued to enrich WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM my life in many ways. Getting involved as a volunteer SERVING AS A CHAPTER ADVISOR? can bring you this further enrichment as well, and introduce you to women who will make you proud to I have learned SO much over the years - and continue call yourself an Alpha Chi. to learn every day. I have learned that mentorship is needed and appreciated. Having someone to reach out If learning about Liz's experience as a volunteer inspired you who will listen, empower, collaborate, offer a resource to serve, log in to my.alphachiomega.org and select "Profile" or just cheer them on is SO valuable to our young and then the "Volunteer Interest" tab. Fill out your Volunteer collegians. Interest Form to get started! 66 ALPHA CHI OMEGA BUSINESS Alpha Chi Omega Alpha Chi Omega Have You Considered Board Service? A re you a visionary leader with a passion If you know an alumna sister who can make a for Alpha Chi Omega? If you are skilled at difference as a national board leader, please continue seeing the big picture and collaborating to reading the following pages to learn about the solve complex challenges, Enterprise board service specific duties of each board and how to submit may be for you. We invite members to explore serving recommendations. We also highly encourage self- on an Alpha Chi Omega national board as a way to recommendations! Thank you for considering this give back to and enrich our everlasting sisterhood. impactful volunteer opportunity. Recommendations are now being accepted! BOARD APPLICATION TIMELINE The Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise is led by three boards of alumnae volunteers - the Fraternity National February 16, 2025: Deadline to submit a Council, the Foundation Board of Trustees and the recommendation for Foundation and NHC roles National Housing Corporation Board of Directors. Each March 16, 2025: Deadline to submit materials to be year depending on terms, some of the boards request considered a candidate recommendations for new volunteers. While each March-May, 2025: Recommendations and candidate board governs a different entity with a specific focus information reviewed; interviews held; candidates area, all boards share the need for strategic thinkers and selected for the Foundation and NHC visionary leaders. The following board positions are June-July 2025: Onboarding and training open at this time for terms beginning August 1, 2025: August 1, 2025: Term of service begins (3 years for Foundation, 2 years for NHC) One Foundation trustee Up to four National Housing Corporation directors (three current directors are eligible for OPPORTUNITY FOR COLLEGIANS: NNC reappointment) Ahead on page 70, collegians will find an While previous volunteer experience with Alpha Chi opportunity to apply for the National Omega is a benefit, it is not required. Expertise from Nominating Committee (NNC). The NNC is professional roles, leadership in other organizations an important national-level volunteer group, and other personal experiences is valuable. Alpha Chi charged with identifying women to serve on the Omega needs candidates who are dedicated to the National Council. The 2024-26 NNC, elected Real. Strong. Women. Experience and skilled in board at the last convention, is seeking one collegiate governance and strategic planning. The Enterprise is member and one alternate collegiate member to seeking more alumnae members to aspire for board join the six alumnae currently serving. service with the pool of candidates representing the diversity of our members and our campuses. APPLICATION TIMELINE: March 16, 2025: Applications due Our current board members are always happy to share March - May 2025: Applications reviewed; their experience with prospective candidates and interviews held; candidates selected answer questions. Please email Erin West, executive June-July 2025: Onboarding and training manager, at ewest@alphachiomega.org to arrange a call August 1, 2025 - July 31, 2026: Term of service with a board member. THE LYRE 67 BUSINESS NOW SEEKING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR Foundation Board Service Are you passionate about Alpha Chi Omega? Do you value strategic thinking and guidance? Do you have experience in any of the following? Fundraising leadership Strategic planning Professional areas (academia, finance, human resources, law, sales, etc.) Nonprofit board governance Do you embrace women's empowerment, equity and inclusivity? Are you interested in volunteering and giving back to Alpha Chi Omega? THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES IS LOOKING FOR YOU! As one of the boards comprising the national leadership of Alpha Chi Omega, the Board of Trustees (BOT) is a group of alumnae focused on ensuring the future of Alpha Chi Omega. Coming from across the country, trustees vary in age and experience in order to represent our members. The BOT is seeking diverse women of all ages, ethnicities, races and societal backgrounds who have the experience and passion to help shape the future of the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation. The Foundation's mission states: The Alpha Chi Omega Foundation strives to realize and sustain the educational and philanthropic values of Alpha Chi Omega through successful fundraising and stewardship. Generous gifts from our members and friends enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience and empower our members to impact their communities and world positively. With virtual monthly meetings, the Foundation Board of Trustees is responsible for the strategic guidance of our professional staff team as well as our mutual fundraising and stewardship efforts. Together, they provide financial resources to our Fraternity programs that comprise the Real. Strong. Women. Experience, including grants and scholarships. For a detailed description of trustee responsibilities, please visit www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities RECOMMENDATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED! Candidates will be screened for expertise in the areas of board governance, finance, fundraising and leadership, as well as matched to the current needs of the board. Diversity of board members is a key priority. SUBMIT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND THE NHC BOARD OF DIRECTORS BY: Scanning the QR code or visiting www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities and scrolling down to the National Leadership section. Self-recommendations are encouraged! Email ewest@alphachiomega.org with any questions. 68 ALPHA CHI OMEGA NOW SEEKING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NHC Board Service If you have been looking for a way to serve Alpha Chi Omega and believe you have the leadership and vision to shape its future, the National Housing Corporation (NHC) would love to learn more about you. The NHC Board of Directors, one of the boards that make up our sisterhood's national leadership, seeks members to serve our Enterprise in a focused, challenging, rewarding and fun way. IF YOU ANSWER "YES" TO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONSIDER NHC BOARD SERVICE! Do you have experience in strategic planning and financial oversight? Have you served on nonprofit boards and have board, organizational, policy and resource development expertise? Do you have an understanding of the needs of today's collegiate members? Do you have the business acumen and analytical skills to think creatively and address challenges and opportunities? Do you generally understand nonprofit governance and believe in the fundamental partnership between board and staff? Do you work in the areas of real estate, property management, legal and/or finance? Do mission, values and policies drive you? Do project management, organizational behavior, legal and risk exposure fall into your wheelhouse of transferable skills? Do you have a finance, banking, property management, law or real estate career? (These areas can be helpful but are not mandatory.) The all-volunteer NHC Board of Directors meets virtually monthly in partnership with our staff to achieve the NHC's mission - to enhance the Real. Strong. Women. Experience by providing safe and competitive facilities where members connect, lead, grow and serve - and contribute to the overall success of the Alpha Chi Omega Enterprise. Prior Alpha Chi Omega volunteer experience is not required. For a detailed description of director responsibilities, please scan the QR code or visit www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities. We are committed to enhancing and broadening the NHC's board membership and cultivating an inclusive environment valuing all involved. We seek cultural, racial, professional and geographical diversity for the board. The success of the NHC will depend on having the right blend of skill sets, expertise, network connections, diverse perspectives and spheres of influence across the board. Committing to diversity, equity and inclusion, we encourage all interested members to consider serving. If you have the vision, skills and talent to further the NHC's mission, submit a recommendation now! DATES TO REMEMBER: February 16, 2025: March-May 2025: June-July 2025: Transition and onboarding Recommendations due Recommendations and candidate materials reviewed; August 1, 2025: Service begins (3 years for March 16, 2025: candidates interviewed; board Foundation, 2 years for NHC) Candidate materials due members selected THE LYRE 69 BUSINESS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NNC Collegiate Members As a collegiate member of Alpha Chi Omega, you have the opportunity to select the future leadership of the Fraternity by serving on the National Nominating Committee (NNC). Collegiate women bring an important perspective to the process of slating the candidates for National President and the five national vice presidents. The NNC is seeking diverse women of all ethnicities, races and backgrounds who have the passion to help shape and guide the future of Alpha Chi Omega. The NNC needs your voice to represent collegiate members nationwide! THE NNC IS CHARGED WITH: Requesting nominations to serve on the National Council from the membership Facilitating the interview process of National Council nominees Evaluating women who have demonstrated the vision, skills and dedication to be elected leaders of the Fraternity Creating and presenting to the convention body a slate of candidates to serve on the National Council The work of the 2024-26 NNC will culminate in summer 2026 when the slate of candidates is presented to the 2026 convention delegates for election to the National Council. HOW ARE NNC COLLEGIATE CANDIDATES CHOSEN? In accordance with Fraternity policies, five NNC alumnae members and one alumna alternate were elected by the 2024 convention voting delegates. During the first year of their term, these six alumnae select one collegiate member and one alternate collegiate member to serve on the 2024-26 NNC. Students serve on the NNC for a one-year term beginning August 1, 2025. Qualified applicants should be: Scan the QR code to apply Alpha Chi Omega collegiate members (at the time of application) who remain by March 16 or in good standing for the duration of their term visit the Knowledgeable about important issues of the Fraternity and/or campus culture Volunteer Able to participate in all NNC conference calls and one in-person meeting Opportunities Able to maintain strict confidentiality about prospective nominees and the page on the deliberations of the committee applications Alpha Chi Omega website Individuals interested in applying should complete the online application available to access the in early January on www.alphachiomega.org/volunteeropportunities.) Please submit application. your application via online form no later than March 16, 2025. Questions? Contact Mary Kacmarcik Baker, Ed.D. (Delta Mu, University of Massachusetts), chair of the National Nominating Committee, at nncaxo@gmail.com. Note that applicants do not need to be nominated in order to apply. All qualified collegians are encouraged to apply. 70 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AXO CONNECTION WE SPY FUTURE ALPHA CHIS GA C'24 3 1 AXQ AXQ O1 2 4 COLLEGIATE NOTES : RECRUITMENT EDITION! 1 EPSILON PHI (GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF 3 THETA SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TECHNOLOGY) FLORIDA) Sisters prepare to welcome their new class of sisters Sisters work hard during recruitment but always make when recruitment wraps up. time for fun. 2 GAMMA XI (WESTERN MICHIGAN 4 KAPPA OMICRON (HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY) UNIVERSITY) There's always time for a photo during pre-recruitment Sisters take a minute for a picture in front of their week! chapter facility before recruitment starts! THE LYRE 71 is AXO CONNECTION AXO 5 7 WELCOME TO camp 6 8 5 GAMMA UPSILON (UNIVERSITY OF 7 EPSILON CHI (UNIVERSITY OF NORTH HOUSTON) CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL) Members of Gamma Upsilon eagerly await the arrival of Let's celebrate! These sisters couldn't wait to welcome their new sisters on Bid Day. their new members home. 8 EPSILON ETA (STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE 6 EPSILON KAPPA (CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY) UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON) Sisterhood was in full bloom at the Epsilon Eta The Epsilon Kappa chapter enjoyed a Camp AXO chapter's Bid Day. themed Bid Day! 72 ALPHA CHI OMEGA MY MY MISS ERICAN 9 11 10 12 9 EPSILON LAMBDA (THE UNIVERSITY OF 11 ALPHA BETA (PURDUE UNIVERSITY) TEXAS AT ARLINGTON) There's nothing quite like Bid Day hugs! Members celebrate Bid Day with a My My Miss American Alpha Chi theme. 12 BETA ETA (FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY) Sisters take a photo with one of Beta Eta's newest 10 OMICRON (BAKER UNIVERSITY) members! Omicron chapter delivered during recruitment, welcoming home new sisters! THE LYRE 73 is AXO CONNECTION 13 15 LOV Ella Caitlun aylyn Haley Cassidu YO bid days2024 14 16 13 SIGMA (UNIVERSITY OF IOWA) 15 DELTA NU (IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY) Sisters raised AXO letters high to share their excitement New members were feeling all the love during Bid Day. on Bid Day. 16 KAPPA CHI (FLORIDA GULF COAST 14 LAMBDA NU (NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY) UNIVERSITY) Kappa Chi members had a picture-perfect Bid Day. These Alpha Chi Omega sisters had the berry best Bid Day! 74 ALPHA CHI OMEGA 1 3 2 4 ALUMNAE NOTES 1 KAPPA UPSILON KAPPA (MID-MISSOURI) - 3 GAMMA PSI GAMMA (SACRAMENTO, CA) Sisters enjoyed a beautiful summer day and time Members and family gathered for a BBQ full of fun and together. sisterhood! 2 OMICRON PHI OMICRON (ZETA PI 4 IOTA UPSILON IOTA (WILLIAMSBURG, VA) ALUMNAE) AND ZETA PHI ZETA (RICHMOND, VA) Sisters hosted a Rushing Our Seniors happy hour, where Sisters from both alumnae chapters and their province they invited Zeta Pi (Arizona State University) seniors alumnae chair, Heather Childers Racer (Gamma to introduce them to what life as an alumna is like. Omicron, Marshall University), enjoyed a trip to the New Kent Winery in Virginia. THE LYRE 75 AXO CONNECTION The Mousetra] by Agatha Chr: ets: (541) 344-77 5 7 6 8 5 GAMMA THETA GAMMA 7 GAMMA ETA GAMMA (EUGENE, OR) (LOS ANGELES, CA) To kick off the programming year, chapter members The alumnae chapter welcomed Debbie Perry into the enjoyed a production of The Mousetrap at the Very Little bond at her Alumna Initiation Ceremony in September. Theatre, followed by dinner at a local Italian restaurant. Welcome to Alpha Chi Omega! 8 ZETA IOTA ZETA (CHARLOTTE, NC) 6 SIGMA SIGMA (ST. LOUIS, MO) Members kicked off Domestic Violence Awareness More than 50 sisters gathered for the Fall Sigma Sigma Month by attending Safe Alliance's Breakfast of Hope Night, where they celebrated the national awards the fundraiser, which raised more than $300,000 to support chapter has received since 2006. the organization. 11 9 10 12 9 TAU UPSILON TAU (ALPHA PSI ALUMNAE) 11 BETA OMEGA BETA (PHOENIX, AZ) Tau Upsilon Tau meets mostly virtually, SO it was a joy During its Founders' Day Luncheon, the alumnae for co-president Karen Lynch and VP Communications chapter recognized several membership milestones, Kyra McCullough to meet in person at the Rose Bowl. including 75 years of sisterhood for Annabel Allen (Alpha Beta, Purdue University). 10 MU MU (KANSAS CITY, MO) 12 ALPHA EPSILON ALPHA Mu Mu's 19th annual Silence the Violence event was a (WASHINGTON, DC) massive success, raising more than $30,000 and seeing To celebrate Alpha Epsilon Alpha's 90th anniversary, more than 100 sisters, family and friends enjoy the chapter members gathered at the student union evening at the Silo restaurant at Canyon Farms Golf building of the University of Maryland, welcoming their Club. collegiate sisters from the Gamma Theta chapter as well. THE LYRE 77 is AXO CONNECTION Fig 13 15 14 16 13 GAMMA OMICRON GAMMA (EAST 15 EPSILON ZETA (AUBURN UNIVERSITY) CLEVELAND, OH) AND ALPHA NU ALPHA ALUMNAE (WEST CLEVELAND, OH) Fourteen sisters traveled in from five states for a Our two Cleveland alumnae chapters met up to weekend on Mackinac Island, Michigan, where they celebrate Founders' Day. enjoyed shopping, high tea, carriage rides, bicycling and plenty of sisterhood time. 14 ALUMNAE IN ST. LOUIS, MO Sisters gathered back in April for a Women & Wisdom 16 DELTA PSI (UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, event in St. Louis, Missouri. SANTA BARBARA) ALUMNAE These Delta Psi sisters from the 1979-83 member classes reunited back at campus, including a sleepover at the chapter facility! is 78 ALPHA CHI OMEGA AX2 17 19 18 20 17 MEDICAL STUDENT SISTERS 19 MU (SIMPSON COLLEGE) ALUMNAE Malena Long (left, Alpha Upsilon, University of Alumnae shared their Alpha Chi pride at Simpson Alabama) and Lily Wilson (right, Epsilon Zeta, Auburn College's homecoming this fall. University) are first-year medical students at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College 20 ALPHA ETA (UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT of Medicine. They were delighted to learn that they are UNION) ALUMNA AND COLLEGIANS both Alpha Chis when matched for a case presentation. Victoria Byler, a licensed trauma therapist and founder/ owner of Revive Counseling LLC, returned to her 18 DELTA KAPPA (SAM HOUSTON STATE chapter to give a presentation on normalizing mental UNIVERSITY) ALUMNAE health discussions, practicing mindfulness and seeking This summer, these Delta Kappa alumnae met up in support. Victoria shared, "It's a privilege to be able to Wimberly, Texas for their annual reunion. give back to the community that shaped me and to help others achieve their goals and seek the heights." THE LYRE 79 MEMORIAM In Memoriam Jean Elizabeth Chaloupka Carter, 1930, January Chi (Oregon State University) 1978 Joan Dietz Cline, 1974, September 2024 Helen Argenti Christian, 1949, July 2019 Alice K. Daley, 1929, May 2005 Reported to headquarters between August 1 and Nora Doe Clark, 1944, April 2009 Gretchen Hohn Olson, 1967, November 2023 October 31, 2024 Ellen Ingram Clausen, 1939, September 2000 Name, Initiation Year, Month and Year of Death Marguerite Tannler Cogswell, 1942, May 2002 Psi (The University of Oklahoma) Muriel Nattrass Davis, 1943, June 1977 Grace Ward Boulton, 1947, February 2024 Alpha (DePauw University) Madora Hicks Doherty, 1938, October 1988 Jean Yarborough Hartsuck, 1958, August 2024 Margaret Ackels Crawford, 1927, August 1999 Virginia Hess Eisenlohr, 1944, March 2006 Margaret Flood Moore, 1943, August 2024 Anne Harvey Dabbs, 1948, January 2022 Lynne Watson Erickson, 1953, October 2014 Shirley Kramer Schuessler, 1957, August 2024 Marian Miner Moore, 1947, September 2024 Ruth Lauber Fearon, 1942, October 2013 Judith Gibson Stone, 1951, January 2024 Martha Sweazey Gaby, 1944, March 2017 Omega (Washington State University) Patricia Huber Galvin, 1936, July 2019 Elva C. Bond, 1938, March 2002 Gamma (Northwestern University) Barbara Field Gordon, 1947, May 2014 Pamela Dodd Corpman, 1964, November 2022 Edith Cecilia McDonald, 1945, September 2024 Patricia Aiken Haynes, 1943, April 2014 Catherine Lohrenz Desmeth, 1936, August 1995 Marilyn Ross Thomas, 1950, June 2005 Nancy Delzer Hevly, 1950, March 2022 Eileen Mae Fairchild, 1932, December 1995 Katherine McKean Hoagland, 1939, June 2017 Alice Margaret Lemon, 1937, December 1995 Delta (Allegheny College) Virginia Helen Hulse, 1936, May 1989 June Gallaher McKellar, 1951, December 2022 Helen Davis Towns, 1917, September 1992 Elsie Huskinson Istas, 1947, December 1997 Loyce Haden Piercey, 1937, December 2014 V McGillicuddy Johnson, 1939, July 2015 Doris D. Rosenkranz, 1937, January 2009 Epsilon (University of Southern California) Doreen Lidgate, 1943, April 2019 Christine Adelman, Stratton, 1967, June 2024 Jean Atherton Rogers, 1968, July 2024 Mary Murray Lund, 1936, November 1986 Margaret Hayne Vander Stoep, 1944, May 2022 Jolene Leggatt Mathews, 1943, December 2001 Eta (Bucknell University) S Hoge McGough, 1934, December 2009 Alpha Beta (Purdue University) Allison Lawrence Grimm, 1987, November 2022 Emma Ness McGoun, 1940, May 1983 Sally Hicks Combs, 1950, January 2022 Barbara Jaffee Horner, 1956, August 2023 Doralee Heady Morgan, 1948, April 2012 Virginia Royce Richardson, 1938, May 2005 Joan Carter Medlin, 1948, September 2024 Patricia Sweazey Nelson, 1945, October 2023 Ellen Klinstiver Seabrook, 1971, August 2024 Meridel Berola Wesely, 1963, May 2024 Jeanne Heffernan Noftsger, 1943, November 2000 Louise Powell Whitney, 1965, March 2022 Dorothy Kinney Pennington-Medina, 1942, Alpha Gamma (The University of New December 2000 Mexico) Theta (University of Michigan) Elinor Reid Reilly, 1937, March 2005 Janet Ruth C' De Baca, 1977, August 2023 Suzanne Rhoads Cross, 1944, August 2024 Virginia Lyon Riva, 1948, September 2019 Florence Gates Rickard, 1939, October 2024 Shirley Flint Sells, 1948, February 2020 Alpha Delta (University of Cincinnati) Harriett Dustin Sierer, 1940, October 2018 Carol Heepke Allgood, 1945, April 2019 Kappa (University of Wisconsin) Helen Cameron Simpson, 1943, November 2015 Marjorie Mathews Dale, 1932, March 1997 Joyce Campbell Beals, 1949, October 2024 Joan Morse Sprake, 1948, September 2015 Elizabeth Ann Reichle Lieder, 1950, October Lois Johnson Held, 1953, February 2023 Virginia Oass Steffensen, 1944, November 2018 2024 Phyllis Mark Mott, 1958, September 2024 Marilyn Crothers Swanson, 1949, June 2017 Sara Sinaiko, 1971, August 2024 Janet Swanson Tehan, 1949, July 2021 Alpha Eta (University of Mount Union) Betty Rogstad Thornhill, 1948, January 2009 Nancy Freshwater Aldridge, 1934, January 2010 Nu (University of Colorado Boulder) Georgia Bigelow Thwing, 1952, November 2001 Goldie Lasse Art, 1933, April 2010 Carolyn Cahal Holder, 1960, August 2024 Maywood Mitchell Tyrell, 1940, November 1999 Claudia Ferguson Ashelman, 1939, August 2016 Lois Nelson Kellogg, 1940, February 2009 Sally Meyers Ursic, 1946, November 2018 Dorothy Cheney Benjamin, 1942, October 2005 Anne McLean Springer, 1938, April 1989 Betty Stambaugh Wallsten, 1949, September Gwendolyn Hufler Clevenger, 1931, March 2009 Julia Jones Thomas, 1943, November 2006 2006 Louise Schmittle Dew, 1939, September 2003 Janice Trosper Wendler, 1944, October 2004 Frances Farwick Engelberg, 1934, July 2012 Xi (University of Nebraska - Lincoln) Mary Scofield Fischer, 1941, April 2011 Kathryn Louise Patton, 1940, December 1998 Sigma (University of Iowa) Gwynne Williams Galpin, 1943, May 2014 Patricia Mary Brandt, 1953, October 2024 Pi (University of California, Berkeley) Nanci Getschine Lewis, 1954, March 2022 Upsilon (Millikin University) Beverly Angell Harper, 1948, December 2014 Rho (University of Washington) Cleo Ward Jones, 1958, September 2024 Caroline Ahrens Belch, 1935, December 2011 Kimberly Kay Walden, 1991, September 2024 Virginia Kirby Bergstrom, 1933, November 2012 Elizabeth Boone Bonvillian, 1938, July 2019 Phi (University of Kansas) G. Marilyn Ives Breindl, 1950, January 2018 Cynthia Ann Clifton, 1960, October 2024 Zoe Sitton Carlile, 1944, August 2018 Anne Elizabeth Hall, 2001, September 2024 Mary Mercer Castellini, 1943, July 2020 80 ALPHA CHI OMEGA DO YOU HAVE AN ALPHA CHI OMEGA MEMBER TO REPORT AS DECEASED? Thelma Shultz Greiner, 1938, May 2020 Lois Lipps Carpenter, 1936, February 2000 Alice Mae Tarvin Holder, 1943, May 2016 Mary Lyons Chenoweth, 1949, November 1993 Laverne Withers Hughes, 1935, May 2006 Dorothy Bennett Cochran, 1937, March 2018 EMAIL EDITOR@ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG WITH Betty Lynn Jones, 1940, February 2015 Marjorie Kerby Cojerean, 1948, August 2020 HER NAME, CHAPTER AND DATE OF DEATH, Evelyn German Jones, 1938, October 2023 Dona Harding Colley, 1944, August 2016 ALONG WITH A COPY OF THE OBITUARY IF Alice Dulabahn Kellogg 1941, March 2016 Aurrel Laxton Coughlan, 1929, November 2001 AVAILABLE. Jean Newton King, 1941, May 1997 Helen Cray, 1929, June 1972 Eleanor Schneider Lukes, 1940, November 2002 Inez Equals Davis, 1933, November 2005 HEADQUARTERS WILL UPDATE OUR DATABASE Evelyn Mae MacBurney, 1941, May 2009 Emmalyn Ball Degen, 1947, September 2017 AND INCLUDE HER NAME IN THE NEXT ISSUE Miriam Brooks Manfull, 1943, February 2005 Virginia Weber Demond, 1943, November OF THE MAGAZINE. Martha Sheatsley Moench, 1935, January 2003 2016 Margaret Treiber Reed, 1935, January 2008 Ruth Howard Doane, 1939, January 2012 Ethel Wilcoxon Shilliday, 1942, May 2015 Joyce Cooke Evans, 1945, February 2023 Marion Harding Smith, 1950, August 2013 Mary Lou Schmutzler Shollenberger, 1949, Marjorie Dempsey Fitch, 1936, January 2014 Betty Goodwin Spencer, 1933, July 1996 October 2024 Bette French, 1942, May 2001 Geneal Copper Stearns, 1945, October 2015 Florence McEwan Sieg, 1941, June 2008 Jean Miller Gaille, 1944, July 2012 Dorothy Varner Sullivan, 1942, June 1996 Alice Williams Stimmel, 1939, September 2001 Marian Elizabeth Greenberg, 1943, February Sylvia Holte Thompson, 1937, February 2010 Diane Nock Syfer, 1959, August 2024 1985 Shirley Gustafson Thorpe, 1945, November 2022 Inabel Mayhew Walvoord, 1941, June 1996 Joan Greif Hagedorn, 1946, April 2009 Margaret Norris Thorson, 1946, June 2009 Marion Spanagel Webb, 1928, March 2002 Doris Norell Hale, 1931, September 2005 Carol Rounds Toevs, 1949, November 2022 Kristin May Harris, 1984, August 1990 Marilyn Daigh Toevs, 1945, June 1999 Alpha Lambda (University of Minnesota) Elizabeth Hale Hindman, 1940, January 1996 Shirley Couper Torkelson, 1943, April 2020 Nancy Christiansen Jensen, 1954, March 2024 Elizabeth Simpson Hoye, 1944, July 2017 Norma Kathleen Tovey, 1949, October 2002 Marjorie Gustafson Rupp, 1949, September 2024 Audrey Oberg Hunter, 1937, July 1996 Bernadean Reese Tudder, 1948, November 2007 Rosemarie Jager Iverson, 1950, March 2019 Marjorie Moline Waller, 1950, June 2017 Alpha Mu (Indiana University) Geraldine Fritzley Jones, 1951, July 2000 Lois Fredrickson Warner, 1929, March 1970 Marilyn Robinson Gallagher, 1946, December Barbara Smith Josephson, 1943, December 2021 Irene Glahe Wellman, 1941, February 1985 2016 Eileen Thomson Kaufman, 1948, March 2014 L Williams Weza, 1948, August 2013 Alma Freyn Lathem, 1940, September 2024 Grace Jones Keegan, 1945, September 2004 Gail Tracie Williams, 1956, September 2024 Frances Shropshire Pyle, 1939, May 2013 Edith Seyfert Kinucan, 1948, October 2008 Dorothy Benson Zimmerman, 1947, December MJ Gavin Schenck, 1950, September 2023 Martha Tucker Kuykendall, 1945, October 2019 2009 Kathryn Weber Law, 1946, October 2015 Alpha Nu (University of Missouri) Catherine Church Luscher, 1950, December 2017 Alpha Sigma (Ohio Wesleyan University) Gale Seaman Richards, 1961, January 2023 Mary Updike Lyman, 1925, January 1985 Helen Allison, 1926, March 1999 Alberta Spencer McCaffrey, 1943, October 1985 Lenora Bartlett, 1931, September 1991 Alpha Xi (University of Montana) Beverly Kennedy McCarter, 1944, March 2019 Anna Jenkins Bell, 1932, November 1992 Helen Hales Elliott, 1947, September 2024 Miriam Hansen McNair, 1944, June 2016 Mary Hunter Bontley, 1936, July 2016 Joan Louise Wyant, 1947, October 2024 Mildred McNichols, 1924, June 1995 Marjorie Smith Brown, 1929, March 2010 Maxine Merrill McNutt, 1940, February 2009 Mary Wilt Clark, 1933, April 2008 Alpha Omicron (The Ohio State University) Geraldine Langer Meeks, 1933, November 2009 Gloria Webb Davis, 1954, April 2024 Martha Ann Gessner, 1946, September 2024 Iona Penwell Mickey, 1924, January 1996 Barbara Light Edridge, 1938, January 2005 Margaret Lynn Koegle, 1949, August 2024 Anna Handel Miller, 1947, September 2014 Grace Weatherby Evans, 1931, August 1995 Bonnie Schwendiman Mortensen, 1946, Pauline Wild Freed, 1931, February 1991 Alpha Rho (University of Idaho) November 2013 Mary Handshy Gorman, 1934, April 2002 Fleta Williams Adams, 1945, April 2016 Barbara Greene Mossman, 1951, February 2018 Jane Lee B. Goshorn, 1937, March 2000 Shirley Ball Ambrose, 1949, October 2020 Helen Munea, 1926, February 1989 Marjorie E Hawk, 1930, August 1991 Theodora Zilka Anderson, 1936, February 2002 Eileen Mae Nelson, 1947, April 2005 Margaret Beamer Hazzard, 1932, May 1977 Betty Farrens Barnhill, 1943, February 2001 Betty Pyles Nesby, 1947, October 2019 Trudi Egan Hendricks, 1964, May 2020 Margaret Weber Baumgartner, 1947, July 2024 Verda Mylander Newell, 1947, September 2024 Dorotha Cruikshank Hipkins, 1924, May 1983 Phyllis Hines Billing, 1943, December 1994 Geraldine Elder Nyman, 1940, December 2011 R Horton, 1931, June 1981 Mary Harding Blanton, 1950, September 2022 Doris O'Connell, 1943, February 1997 Gladys Price Howe, 1926, October 1998 Dorothy Louise Blocher, 1952, February 2005 Lauretta Gibbs O'Shea, 1941, August 2009 Ruth King Hoyt, 1935, June 2008 Margaret Tomlinson Borresen, 1941, June 2012 Bettilou Field Pierce, 1952, April 2011 Neva Lucas Humphreys, 1935, September 2012 Inez Brown, 1938, June 1991 Doris Anderson Ransom, 1948, February 2004 Ruth Hessler Jack, 1946, November 2023 Pearl Sloan Bullock, 1939, June 2009 Virginia Allyn Rice, 1939, August 2011 Phyllis Walter Jeffers, 1936, October 2009 Viola Dissault Bullock, 1924, December 1998 Inez Sherwood Robertson, 1930, June 1994 Martha L Kerr, 1938, March 1991 Frieda Downing Burden, 1947, June 2008 Margaret Eke Robinette, 1947, April 2009 Evelyn Payne Kidd, 1936, April 2007 Sara Landers Burgess, 1952, April 2023 Helen Hillman Smith, 1940, July 1999 Annette Lewis Lawson, 1931, April 2010 THE LYRE 81 MEMORIAM Beta Gamma (Louisiana State University) Beta Omega (The University of Toledo) Barbara Bruchhaus Purdy, 1955, May 2019 Elaine Buffington Braun, 1960, November 2022 Beta Delta (College of William & Mary) Gamma Epsilon (Oklahoma State University) Betty Chesson Morton, 1956, August 2024 Elizabeth Gibbons Cummins, 1971, January 2024 Gwendolyn Batten Perkins, 1950, August 2024 Ann Leighty Lehew, 1951, August 2024 Virginia Weston Slaughter, 1945, October 2024 Helen Louise Shields, 1955, September 2024 Beta Epsilon (Michigan State University) Gamma Zeta (Kansas State University) Marjorie Pattee Athey, 1957, February 2021 Barbara Ann Allison, 1963, October 2024 Alice Jean Galinski,1960, September 2024 Ramona Sue Perkins, 1955, October 2024 Ruth Hedge Layton, 1936, June 1993 Josephine Johnson Underdown-Bartz, 1932, Ann-Elizabeth McClelland Lee, 1937, August January 2000 Gamma Theta (University of Maryland) 2006 Jane Blunt McGrath Collins, 1949, September Muriel Morris Lewis, 1931, April 1992 Beta Zeta (Whitman College) 2024 Elizabeth Baker Lombard, 1931, April 2007 Anita Pinkerton Belcher, 1956, October 2023 Carole Lee Windham, 1958, April 2024 Ruth Louise McKay, 1931, May 2007 Nina Rippe Guenther, 1951, July 2024 Priscilla Bacon Millhiser, 1931, March 2008 Macile Sutliff Powers, 1938, January 2009 Gamma Kappa (Idaho State University) Lois Devendorf Pearse, 1937, July 1994 Audrey J. St Mitchell, 1931, November 1992 Mary Perkins Walker, 1950, October 2008 Dorothy Hess Pflug, 1931, May 1967 Edna Lind Story, 1931, September 1986 Florence Pritchard, 1935, January 1938 Wilma Morton Turner, 1935, March 1995 Gamma Lambda (Kent State University) Miriam Curtis Rinderle, 1933, September 2008 Gail Rybold Allison, 1955, May 2024 Geraldine Shaw Rowan, 1924, June 1994 Beta Kappa (University of Wyoming) Carol Moeller Holland, 1950, October 2024 Charlet Cellars Snell, 1928, October 2004 Wilma Wadsworth Halterman, 1957, August Marian Elizabeth Spring, 1935, February 2008 2021 Gamma Mu (Ball State University) Jean St Lawrence, 1932, August 2004 Virginia Ruble Bowers, 1950, August 1994 Ethel Casner Taylor, 1924, July 1995 Beta Lambda (University of Arizona) Joanne Reed Davis, 1950, December 2015 Barbara Evans Thayer, 1937, September 1976 Audrey Luann Dufford, 1933, January 1985 Mary Sandmeyer Thoman, 1934, September 1983 Kimberly Klesner Riley, 1991, March 2020 Gamma Nu (San Diego State University) Juanita Amyx Thomas, 1938, December 1993 Patricia Whelan Akin, 1952, May 2023 Jane Nicholson Tod, 1929, August 2009 Beta Nu (University of Utah) Barbara Ann Cofer-Stoefen, 1972, April 2024 Betty Thompson Wagner, 1935, April 1999 Darl Frederickson Hilton, 1956, September 2024 Pauline Werner Wasson, 1929, September 1968 Tonia Stallings Jensen, 1955, August 2024 Gamma Xi (Western Michigan University) Gladys Jenkins Wheeldon, 1930, January 2007 Susan Walinske Reller, 1984, August 2024 Kara Alkire Wilkinson, 1955, June 2024 Beta Xi (Utah State University) Audrey Stater Williams, 1934, August 2005 Afton Packard Doud, 1937, July 1998 Gamma Pi (University of Tampa) Charlotte Brown Williamson, 1936, January 2010 Gloria Evans Murray, 1947, June 2024 Joyce Elaine Corbett, 1964, October 2024 Geniel Andersen Pond, 1958, August 2024 Alpha Upsilon (The University of Alabama) Lucille Taylor Wennegren, 1949, August 2024 Gamma Tau (Oklahoma City University) Judith Liles Hart, 1966, May 2022 Tommy Brantley Palmer, 1955, September 2024 Beta Rho (American University) Alpha Phi (The University of Texas at Austin) Maryanne Reisinger Probus, 1948, December Gamma Upsilon (University of Houston) Sue Brooks Baxter, 1960, July 2017 2020 Jane Redmond Bass, 1966, April 2024 Cathy Foster Burch, 1985, July 2024 Marilyn Holub Goolsby, 1961, July 2024 Mary Elizabeth Daily, 1949, November 2017 Beta Sigma (University of Georgia) Margaret Frances Goldau, 1966, September 2024 Sara Proffitt Masters, 1946, August 2024 Gamma Psi (Wichita State University) Mary Boggs Greenlaw, 1963, May 2024 Linda McFarland Mitts, 1960, July 2022 Coleen Raley Heath, 1946, June 2019 Beta Tau (Miami University) Carolyn King Waller, 1953, October 2024 Anne Ferguson Davin, 1948, August 2024 Delta Epsilon (Southeast Missouri State Jean Langston Wells, 1930, August 2008 Alice Fair Loughead, 1951, July 2024 University) Karen Kieldsen Watson, 1960, August 2024 Judy Jett Duncan, 1963, September 2024 Alpha Chi (Butler University) Karen Sargent Lang, 1980, July 2024 Beta Phi (Bowling Green State University) Delta Zeta (Central Michigan University) Margaret Orner Milhon, 1949, July 2017 Donna Wilson Porter, 1947, July 2024 Christina Irwin Krupka, 1981, July 2024 Alpha Psi (UCLA) Beta Chi (Willamette University) Delta Kappa (Sam Houston State University) Patricia Farley Morris, 1953, August 2024 Cherie Raines Bonesteele, 1947, August 2023 Annabeth Purdy Mann, 1959, September 2024 82 ALPHA CHI OMEGA #AXOThankful During the season of thankfulness, we asked our sisters Delta Nu (Iowa State University) on social media what they were #AXOThankful for. Barbara Hahn Wood, 1962, September 2024 We're wishing you notes of happiness, joy and peace this season! Delta Xi (Denison University) Linda Koerner Woodworth, 1967, July 2023 "The chance to be VP PRM for Lambda Pi" Delta Rho (University of Arkansas) KAITLYN FRISK Ann Sly Porter, 1968, October 2022 (LAMBDA PI, UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI) Epsilon Zeta (Auburn University) Shirley Reese Crawford, 1974, July 2024 "I was thankful and honored my Zeta Eta sisters Patricia Parrish Stutts, 1971, September 2024 welcomed my baking talents with pref desserts Epsilon Eta (Stephen F. Austin State University) and initiation celebration Charlotte Watts Eddleman, 1967, September 2024 cakes" Zeta Eta (Bradley University) -VALERY MILLER Imelda Corral, October 2008 GALLAGHER (ZETA ETA, BRADLEY Zeta Rho (Northwood University) UNIVERSITY) Tamela Jane Savage, 1983, August 2024 Theta Lambda (Clemson University) "This amazing Christa Nicole Bauer, 2004, October 2024 sisterhood!" lota Alpha (Alumnae Initiates) ERICA JOHNSON (EPSILON THETA, CALIFORNIA Claire Baggesen, 2020, September 2023 STATE UNIVERSITY, SACRAMENTO) "My sisters for encouraging me to step outside of my comfort zone to try new things" ALEX DANZ (THETA SIGMA. UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA) "The leadership opportunities and sisterhood I've received from Alpha Chi" JILL TANORI (ALPHA GAMMA, UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO) "Thankful for the Alpha Chi Omega chapter consultants team!" KATHRYN EDWARDS (KAPPA CHI, FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY) JOIN THE CONVERSATION BY FOLLOWING US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @AlphaChiOmegaHQ Life Loyal Roll Life Loyal Roll Join the Life Loyal Roll! WE HOPE YOU'RE ENJOYING THE DIGITAL VERSION OF THE LYRE! We also know there's something special about receiving a magazine in print and flipping through the pages to read the stories of our sisterhood. Alumnae members who make cumulative gifts of $299 or more to the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation reach the Life Loyal Roll and receive the printed version of The Lyre four times a year as part of the donor communications plan. VISIT THE LIFE LOYAL ROLL PAGE ON THE ALPHA CHI OMEGA WEBSITE FOR DETAILS! LEARN MORE: WWW.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/LIFELOYALROLL CALL US: 317-579-5050, EXT. 0290 EMAIL US: FOUNDATION@ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG GIVE NOW: GIVE.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG/LIFELOYAL SEE YOUR CURRENT GIVING TOTAL: LOG INTO MY.ALPHACHIOMEGA.ORG AND CLICK THE "FOUNDATION" TAB. Life Lorgal Roll Life Loyal Roll The Impact of Your Gifts When you join the Life Loyal Roll, you'll support the Foundation's mission to enhance the lifetime experiences of our members - and dream big AXQ about the future of Fraternity programming. Through your gifts at the Life Loyal Roll level, you'll make a lasting impact on the future of Alpha Chi Omega and in the lives of our sisters. Transformational programs and experiences that make up the Real. Strong. Women. Experience help our members gain life skills like confidence and leadership ability, self-awareness and interpersonal relationship skills, and comfort with vulnerability and bridging difficult topics. Only with support from donors will Alpha Chi Omega continue to: Promote mental well-being for our sisters through programs that facilitate authentic conversations about mental health Empower our members to build healthy relationships through programming like Let's Talk Love while increasing awareness of domestic violence Create communities of support where sisters encourage sisters to discover their most genuine selves through the Real. Strong. Women. Experience THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERIN G A GIFT TO THE FOUNDATION AT THE LIFE LOYAL ROLL LEVEL! NON-PROFIT Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED ORGANIZATION U.S. Postage 5635 Castle Creek Parkway N. Dr. PAID Indianapolis, IN 46250-4304 Indianapolis, IN Permit N. 1643 alphachiomega.org We're growing our circle! The Foundation's Leadership Circle is a special community of donors dedicated to furthering our mission of empowering women to connect, lead, grow and serve. You're invited to be a part of the collective impact today! Join Leadership Circle by scanning the QR code below or visiting give.alphachiomega.org/circle. For more information about Leadership Circle, Alpha Chi Omega contact the Alpha Chi Omega Foundation: FOUNDATION foundation@alphachiomega.org REAL. STRONG. WOMEN. 317-579-5050, ext. 0230